Sources Xinhua
Maseru — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks on Saturday with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism, South-South cooperation, and closer strategic ties between the two countries amid global uncertainty.
During the exchange, Wang congratulated South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC) on the 114th anniversary of its founding, expressing confidence that South Africa will strengthen national unity, overcome external challenges, and continue advancing development and revitalization efforts. He said China is ready to maintain high-level political engagement with South Africa, expand inter-party dialogue, and deepen strategic mutual trust.
Wang noted that Beijing is committed to enhancing practical cooperation, including the implementation of China’s zero-tariff measures for African countries, aimed at supporting South Africa’s economic growth and delivering tangible benefits to its people. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the success of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges to further strengthen public support for bilateral and broader China-Africa relations.
Commending South Africa’s successful hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit last year, Wang said China supports Pretoria in playing a more prominent role in international affairs. He added that China is willing to work with South Africa and other Global South nations to uphold the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, oppose unilateralism and hegemonism, and safeguard the legitimate interests of developing countries.
Lamola welcomed Wang’s engagement at the start of the new year and thanked China for its continued support, including assistance related to the G20 summit and broader African development initiatives. Reaffirming South Africa’s adherence to the one-China principle, he said Pretoria remains committed to strengthening political trust, expanding cooperation, and advancing the all-round strategic partnership between the two countries.