Activities planned for celebration of 25 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and China
19 April 2023
South Africa and China are celebrating 25 years of diplomatic relations in 2023. The diplomatic relations between South Africa and China were established in 1998 and are underpinned by a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of 2010 and the 10-Year Strategic Programme on Cooperation (2020-2029).
The Chinese people supported South Africa’s struggle against apartheid. Regular interaction between South Africa and China takes place at various official levels and include exchanges of State Visits and high-level engagements. South Africa and China enjoy vibrant economic relations and China is South Africa’s largest global trading partner. The collaborations go beyond bilateral relations to also include regional and multilateral cooperation to advance the agenda of the Global South.
The Consulate in Hong Kong plans on commemorating this milestone through a number of activities during the course of the year which will promote both culture and economic diplomacy. The main events include the Trade and Investment Seminar planned for August 2023 and the cultural celebration in September which will include a Heritage Seminar, Exhibitions and reception hosted in Hong Kong and a Tourism Seminar in Macau.
The activities will kick off with the spectacular pop stores a collaboration between SA Consulate in Hong Kong, WOSA (Wines of South Africa) and Brand SA. This includes showcasing of SA wines. A cultural evening cocktail is planned for 24 April 2023 to promote South Africa’s diverse culture and heritage as well as to promote South Africa as a tourism destination. Expected to perform are South African artists Jessica Mbangeni, story teller Bongiwe and Lolo a Hong Kong based South African musician. Forming part of the activities will be exhibitions and displays including South African products, viz. wine, biltong, arts and craft. Prince Serake Mampuru will be showcasing Pedi arts, craft and heritage and Ms Perseverance Tshem showcasing diverse arts and craft from Kwantu store in South Africa.
A public lecture is planned for 25 April 2023 at the Chinese University of Hong Kong which will be delivered by Ms Jane Mufamadi, CEO of Freedom Park. The National day will be celebrated on 27 April 2023 and a Business Cocktail to promote economic diplomacy on 9 May.
SA Consulate General in Hong Kong, China