Think tank report explicates how world knows a real China amid inbound travel boom

BOAO, Hainan, 5 December 2024 (Xinhua) -- A think tank report released on Wednesday offers an in-depth analysis of how the world is invited to experience a real China up-close, as foreign tourists swarm into the country buoyed by a raft of facilitation measures.

The Olive Tree is a Timeless Symbol of Peace

By Anisha Pemjee - TDS

5 December 2024

“Tunisia is one of the largest producers of olive oil in the world,” said Ambassador Karima Bardaoui of Tunisia to South Africa at an event titled ‘Discovering Tunisian Olive Oil’ in celebration of World Olive Tree Day. At the 40th session of the General conference in 2019, UNESCO proclaimed 26 November as World Olive Tree Day after a proposal by Tunisia and Lebanon. The main objective of this Day is to encourage its protection and appreciate the values it embodies.

Test & Review TDS 

The Opportunity for Emerging Motor Corporations

by Kirtan Bhana

4 December 2024

The decline of traditional motor industries in so-called developed economies has created fertile ground for brands like Mahindra to redefine the automotive landscape. This realignment, driven by volatile financial systems and evolving consumer trust, presents an unprecedented chance to innovate. By focusing on alternative drivetrain technologies, Mahindra can position itself at the forefront of sustainable mobility.

SA’s G20 Presidency to focus on inclusivity 

4 December 2024

South Africa will use its Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency to build a more inclusive and prosperous Africa and a better world, ensuring no one is left behind. This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was speaking during the official launch of South Africa’s G20 Presidency in Cape Town, on Tuesday. 

South Africa and Nigeria strengthen ties 

4 December 2024

South Africa and Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their long-standing ties during the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission held in Cape Town. This as President Cyril Ramaphosa met with his Nigerian counterpart, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at Tuynhuys in Cape Town on Tuesday. The meeting underscored the close bonds of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between the two nations, highlighting the importance of mutual efforts to enhance economic, political and cultural relations.

Visa policy eases boost China Travel and beyond

BEIJING, 3 December 2024 (Xinhua) -- It has been an exciting year for globetrotters as travel to and around China has never been easier.
Whether wandering the willow-lined moat of Beijing's Forbidden City, marveling at the towering natural pillars of Zhangjiajie that inspired Avatar or immersing themselves in the urban cyberpunk vibe of Chongqing, travelers are enjoying a new wave of discovery and cultural connection unseen in years.

SA eyes increased trade relations with Nigeria

3 December 2024

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has emphasised to his Nigerian counterpart the necessity for both nations to elevate investment and trade relations to a higher level. “One of the overriding imperatives of our bilateral relations is the need to increase our investment and trade relations to higher levels. 

Solidarity with the people of the Holy Land – Shalom/Salam/Peace

By Anisha Pemjee

29 November 2024

In South Africa, at Freedom Park, the Embassy of the State of Palestine and the United Nations in South Africa hosted the 47th United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, at the commemoration said, “In 1947, the Assembly adopted resolution 181 (II) on the partition of Palestine. In 1977, the General Assembly called for the annual observance of 29 November as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. 

OPINION
Namibia Votes into the weekend

Namibia's democracy is alive and kicking up a storm, as the country finds itself in the midst of a tumultuous election. Ups and downs enough to pale a rollercoaster ride in comparison, have characterised this week from Wednesday 27 November 2024, as unprecedented events have touched the lives of everybody in one way or another. Voting day to choose the next president of Namibia, and also the parties whose members will make laws in the national assembly, comes once in every four years. More than 90% of the eligible population registered to vote this year. 

DIPLOMATIC SOCIETY BOOK CLUB
Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance by Prof Paul Zilungisele Tembe
A Book Review by Kirtan Bhana

29 November 2024

Prof. Paul Zilungisele Tembe's latest work, Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance, is a rich and multifaceted exploration of the intricate threads that weave together China's ancient past and its contemporary governance model. The title itself offers a metaphorical glimpse into the complexity of Chinese civilization, evoking imagery of silk for its finesse and knots for its structured discipline. This duality aptly frames the book’s central themes: the performative language of governance, the legacy of dynasties, and the crucial interplay of indigenous knowledge systems in shaping a nation’s progress.

AFRIKA

Inzalo ye’Langa, the dawning of the age of Africa
by Kirtan Bhana - TDS

27 November 2024

On September 23 every year, the equinox marks the shift of the Sun towards the Southern Hemisphere, a cosmic event of profound significance. Known as Inzalo ye’Langa or "The Birth of the Sun," this moment heralds the change of seasons, signaling warmth, renewal, and growth. Celebrated at Freedom Park, a heritage site and museum in Pretoria, South Africa, this day serves as a lens through which Africa's rich history, Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), and global contributions are acknowledged and explored.