Mashatile and China’s Premier Li Qiang Meet in Sandton: What It Means for South Africa’s Global Ambitions

Strengthening partnerships beyond the G20

In the wake of South Africa’s historic hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile met with China’s Premier Li Qiang on Sunday in Sandton to consolidate and expand bilateral ties. The meeting, held at the NH Hotel, reflects Pretoria’s commitment to deepening its political, economic, and diplomatic partnership with Beijing.

This engagement follows Mashatile’s visit to China in July and comes shortly after President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State Visit, signalling continuity and momentum in South Africa-China relations.

Trade, investment, and jobs at the centre of talks

At the heart of discussions was South Africa’s ambition to move up the value chain in trade with China. Mashatile emphasised the importance of integrating South African firms into Chinese and global value chains to create jobs and drive inclusive growth particularly for young South Africans entering the workforce.

“The focus is on boosting value-added exports, increasing Chinese investment in beneficiation and manufacturing, and strengthening cooperation in renewable energy and the digital economy,” Mashatile said.

Social media reaction in South Africa highlighted optimism among business leaders, many tweeting that stronger ties with China could help offset uncertainties stemming from relations with Western markets.

Acknowledging China’s support during G20

Mashatile also expressed gratitude for Beijing’s backing during South Africa’s G20 presidency. He noted China’s generous contributions of RMB2 million (R5.34 million) to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, as well as USD2 million (R36.8 million) in support of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

Observers noted that this financial support, along with political endorsement, helped South Africa secure broad consensus for the G20 Declaration, a major diplomatic win for Pretoria.

Looking ahead: Strategic high-level engagements

High-level engagement between the two nations is set to continue. Key upcoming events include:

• The 4th People-to-People Exchange Mechanism

• The 13th South Africa–China Strategic Dialogue in Beijing this December

• The Bi-National Commission, which South Africa will host in March 2026

These platforms are expected to further cement trade, industrialisation, multilateral cooperation, and governance ties between Pretoria and Beijing.

Mashatile was accompanied by senior officials including Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, Minister in the Presidency Maropene Ramokgopa, and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Thandi Moraka.

President Ramaphosa also met with Premier Li during the G20 summit at the Sandton Convention Centre to advance the broader strategic agenda.

A wider geopolitical signal

Analysts say these meetings showcase South Africa’s growing influence in global affairs, positioning it as a bridge between African interests and global powers. By combining trade, investment, and strategic diplomacy, Pretoria is signalling that it can navigate multiple global partners simultaneously, a key step in strengthening the continent’s role on the world stage.

{Source: IOL}

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