Li Zhigang, Charge D’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in South Africa, in a statement emphasised the significance of the upcoming Job Fair 2024 as a crucial step towards implementing the agreements reached by the leaders of China and South Africa. This is reported by
Pretoria News, a partner of TV BRICS.

The event aims to support Africa’s industrialisation, promote agricultural modernisation and launch the China-Africa Talent Development Cooperation Plan.

Li Zhigang emphasised the key role of employment in national development and individual well-being, stressing its importance as a project that resonates with the general public. He highlighted the success of the 2022 job fair organised for Chinese enterprises in South Africa, where more than 60 Chinese companies interacted with over 1,000 local job seekers, resulting in positive social impacts.

China has remained South Africa’s largest trading partner and a major source of foreign direct investment for 15 consecutive years. China’s direct investment in South Africa has exceeded US$13 billion over the past decade, generating an average of 260 jobs per project.

The Charge D’affaires outlined three key objectives to further strengthen China-South Africa relations. These goals include expanding the market for South Africa’s premium exports, supporting the country’s drive for industrialisation, and strengthening the promotion of South Africa’s innovative growth in sectors such as new energy, 5G and the digital economy.

More than 60 Chinese-invested enterprises operating in various sectors such as finance, technology, energy, transport and others are expected to participate in Job Fair 2024. Businesses will be recruiting qualified applicants at the event as part of efforts to reduce the high unemployment rate that South Africa is currently struggling with.

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