Cabinet has expressed its appreciation to Team South Africa ably led by President Cyril Ramaphosa who ensured the 15th Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (BRICS) Summit was a great success.
South Africa hosted a successful XV BRICS Summit from 22-24 August that adopted the historic Johannesburg II Declaration.
“Cabinet expressed its appreciation to Team South Africa ably led by our State President, His Excellency Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa who ensured the Summit was a great success at the level of both content and logistics.
“The President will address the nation on the successful BRICS XV Summit and other important matters,” Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said during a media briefing.
State Visit by Chinese President
Cabinet has welcomed the signing of various Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding between the South African government and the People’s Republic of China in the areas of trade, energy and higher education.
This after South Africa hosted President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China on 22 August 2023, ahead of the BRICS Summit.
The State Visit also marked the celebration of 25 years of diplomatic relations between the Republic of South Africa and the People’s Republic of China. The People’s Republic of China is currently South Africa’s largest trading partner.
The People’s Republic of China had previously donated emergency power equipment worth R167 million and have since made available a grant of R500 million for development assistance.
“Amongst the signed Agreements, it is the China-Africa Development Fund between the IDC and the Bank of China. This Fund will stimulate increased investments in South Africa.
“Cabinet also welcomed the reopening of the Chinese market for the export of South African beef, in addition to the export of South African avocados to China. These export opportunities will unlock new opportunities for our local producers including small scale farmers,” Ntshavheni said.
The Minister added that South Africa is negotiating with BYD, the Chinese automaker and the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer for possible opening of a manufacturing plant in South Africa. This is in addition to the opening of the BAIC manufacturing plant (another Chinese automaker) in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
