DIPLOMACY
China and South Africa: A Transformative Journey Unveiled in '25 Years On'
By Kirtan Bhana - TDS
6 January 2023
Diplomatic and international relations find their true value when they translate into tangible benefits for the lives of local communities. This sentiment is vividly portrayed in the recently premiered three-part documentary, 'China South Africa 25 Years On', a collaborative effort between the China Media Group (CMG) and the South Africa Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). The VIP screening at NU Metro in Hyde Park on December 30, 2023, marked a momentous occasion, shedding light on the profound relationship that has blossomed into a comprehensive strategic partnership over the past quarter-century.
The documentary offers a factual account of this journey, emphasizing the people-centered principles that have guided the cooperation between the Peoples Republic of China and South Africa. The fourth state visit by President Xi Jinping in August 2023 emphasizes China's confidence in South Africa's transformation into a leading and influential nation on the African continent and the global stage.
One compelling story within the documentary comes from Mr. Ivan Hendricks, the team leader at the Hisense electronics and appliance manufacturing plant in Atlantis, Cape Town. His testimony resonates with the sense of dignity and hope brought to the community through employment at the plant. This personal account reflects the tangible impact of Chinese investments on the lives of ordinary South Africans, providing not only employment opportunities but also a vision for a better and brighter future.
The documentary highlights China's commitment to South Africa by introducing green, new, and innovative energy generation sources. These initiatives have not only transformed outdated and crisis-ridden energy utilities but have also facilitated knowledge transfer and skills development, contributing to the modernization of the country and the efficient management of its resources.
Cultural exchanges, exemplified by the Confucius Institutes, play a pivotal role in fostering understanding between South Africans and Chinese. Language learning, face-to-face interactions, and people-to-people engagements contribute to the strengthening of vibrant and dynamic bonds between the two nations. The establishment of operations in China by South African Energy Company SASOL exemplifies the growing interconnectedness for mutual benefit.
Ms. Song Jianing, Acting Bureau Chief of CMG, and Ms. Nada Wotshela, Acting CEO of SABC, emphasized the ongoing collaboration between the state broadcasters. They applauded the documentary's launch, envisioning a continued partnership for the next 25 years in a rapidly transforming media narrative that amplifies the voice of the Global South.
Reflecting on the two and a half decades of collaboration, Prof. Anil Sooklal, South African Special Envoy for Asia and BRICS, and Prof. Zilungisele Tembe, Founder of the SELE encounters, celebrated the phenomenal growth in political, economic, and social cooperation. They emphasized the mutual benefits and understanding that accentuate the enduring connectivity and bond between the two nations. Mr. Zheng Bingkai, Minister of the Embassy of China in Pretoria, echoed these sentiments in his congratulatory remarks, encouraging greater links, association, and communication for the years ahead.
As the world braces for a transitioned geopolitical and socio-economic order over the next 25 years, China is poised to lead, with South Africa as an integral part of an integrated and unified African continent. The documentary '25 Years On' serves as a record of this transformative journey, with screening details soon to be made available, inviting audiences to witness the evolving narrative of collaboration and shared prosperity.