Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his South African colleague Cyril Ramaphosa. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest.

China expressed willingness to work with South Africa to bring relations between the countries to a higher level within the framework of a comprehensive strategic partnership, reports China Central Television. Chinese President Xi Jinping said this during a meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Cyril Ramaphosa delivered welcoming remarks at the official talks on the occasion of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit.

“Over the years, the relationship between South Africa and China has been steadily strengthened and has transformed into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that is underpinned by 10-Year Strategic Programmes of Cooperation. China and South Africa share common goals of economic growth, development and common prosperity for our respective countries and for all countries of the Global South. It is this common outlook that has enabled us to deepen our cooperation on several fronts. South Africa maintains high-level cooperation with China in several areas. These include, but are not limited to, international politics, trade, investment, infrastructure development, science, innovation and education”, said the South African President.

He added that China is South Africa’s largest global trading partner. South Africa is also an important destination for China’s investment in Africa.

“Our bilateral trade has grown exponentially, from less than R1 billion in 1998 to over R614 billion in 2022. As South Africa, we would like to see the significant trade deficit narrowed and this visit is an opportunity for us to look at ways to do so”

Cyril Ramaphosa President of South Africa

The South African president shares the views of the Chinese president and believes that BRICS has a vital role to play in reforming global governance and promoting multilateralism and cooperation around the world.

“South Africa and China have similar views on the expansion of BRICS membership and we look forward to the discussions we will have on this matter during the BRICS Leaders’ Retreat. As friends and BRICS partners, we stand together in our shared quest for a better, more egalitarian world that frees the potential of all peoples,” he said.

Xi arrived in Johannesburg on Monday to attend the 15th BRICS summit and pay a state visit to South Africa. Ramaphosa, along with top South African officials, warmly welcomed Xi at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

The 15th BRICS summit is taking place in Johannesburg from 22 to 24 August.

Photo: CCTV+ & TV BRICS