In Rio de Janeiro this week, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola to reaffirm a commitment to South Africa’s unique development journey. Speaking as representatives of two major developing nations, Wang stressed that tailored strategies can unlock sustainable growth and reduce dependency on external forces.
“China firmly supports South Africa in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions,” Wang Yi said. He added that the Chinese mainland will continue to provide assistance within its capacity to bolster South Africa’s economic and social progress.
Lamola underscored South Africa’s dedication to the one-China principle and highlighted plans to deepen cooperation in key areas such as economy and trade, new energy, education, and capacity building. He warned that unilateral protectionism is eroding the multilateral trading system and jeopardizing sustainable development across the African continent.
Both ministers emphasized the importance of solidarity within the Global South. As emerging economies, they share a responsibility to safeguard the collective interests of developing nations and champion a coordinated response to global challenges.
Looking ahead, China and South Africa plan to launch joint initiatives that will focus on green energy projects, vocational training programs, and trade facilitation measures. This partnership aims to strengthen self-reliance, foster local innovation, and keep their nations’ destinies firmly in their own hands.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
