South Africa Celebrates 25 Years of Diplomatic Relations with China

On October 7, 2023, Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini delivered remarks at the Glorious Melody Great Friendship Celebration on the 25th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between China and South Africa.

In her remarks, Mashego-Dlamini praised the strong and growing relationship between the two countries. She noted that formal diplomatic relations were established on January 1, 1998, but that ties between the two countries date back much further. In 1992, the South African Centre for Chinese Studies was established in Beijing.

Relations between South Africa and China are strong and continue to grow. In March 1992 the South African Centre for Chinese Studies was established in Beijing, however, formal diplomatic relations were established on 1 January 1998.

📷: Jacoline Schoonees/DIRCO#ChinaInSA🇿🇦🇨🇳 pic.twitter.com/dz48ZNLMGW

— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) October 7, 2023

Mashego-Dlamini highlighted the many areas of cooperation between China and South Africa, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. She also noted that the two countries are working together to address global challenges such as climate change and poverty.

The China-South Africa Cultural Exchange Gala Night featured a variety of performances by Chinese and South African artists, including music, dance, and acrobatics. The event was attended by a large number of dignitaries from both countries, as well as members of the public.

#SAChinaRelations🇿🇦🇨🇳| Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini arrives at the 25th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Diplomatic Relation between South Africa and China Celebration.#ChinaInSA#25YearsOfDiplomaticRelations pic.twitter.com/kKIeVjvOxE

— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) October 7, 2023