Minister Blade Nzimande Delivers South Africa’s Congratulatory Message at China’s National Day Celebration

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, delivered the South African government’s official congratulatory message at a reception marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The event, held on Thursday, September 25, was hosted by the Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency Mr. Wu Peng, and attended by dignitaries from both nations, including ministers, deputy ministers, political leaders, and business representatives.

Minister Nzimande conveyed South Africa’s warmest wishes on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the government, highlighting the enduring friendship and growing cooperation between the two countries.

In his keynote address, Minister Nzimande praised China’s remarkable journey of transformation and resilience since its founding in 1949. He said China’s rapid rise from poverty to becoming a global leader in technology, innovation, and modernisation continues to inspire developing nations across the Global South.

“Over the past seven decades, China has risen from profound challenges to become a beacon of development, innovation, and modernisation. The transformation of China is not only a source of pride for the Chinese people but also a source of inspiration for the entire Global South,” said Nzimande.

He commended China’s success in lifting hundreds of millions of its citizens out of poverty, describing it as one of the most significant human development achievements in history. “We salute China’s historic accomplishment in lifting hundreds of millions of its citizens out of poverty, thereby setting an example of people-centred development for the world underpinned by self-reliance,” he added.

Minister Nzimande noted that China’s inclusive approach to modernisation and its commitment to high-quality growth have benefited not only its people but also contributed to global stability, growth, and technological advancement.

Turning to the strong partnership between South Africa and China, Nzimande reflected on the diplomatic relations established between the two nations in 1998. Since then, he said, the relationship has evolved into an “All-Round Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the New Era,” characterised by deep political trust, mutual respect, and solidarity.

“Our two countries have nurtured a relationship defined by political trust, mutual respect, and solidarity. Under the framework of our All-Round Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the New Era, South Africa and China continue to expand cooperation across the political, trade, investment, infrastructure, skills development, and people-to-people exchanges,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of ongoing collaboration in key sectors, including efforts to strengthen South Africa’s capacity for mineral beneficiation, as part of broader goals to promote industrialisation and sustainable economic development across the African continent. “These platforms not only deepen our bilateral ties but also strengthen Africa’s integration into global trade and development,” Nzimande added.

The Minister also used the occasion to thank the Chinese government for its support of South Africa’s G20 Presidency in 2025. He noted that this cooperation underscores the shared vision of both nations for inclusive global governance and sustainable development.

“We express our gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for the unwavering support of South Africa’s G20 Presidency throughout the year. We look forward to welcoming President Xi Jinping to South Africa in November, together with Chinese investors, to participate in the G20 Summit, the Inward Procurement Mission, and the South Africa Investment Conference. His presence will reaffirm the depth of our friendship and our shared vision for sustainable growth and prosperity,” he said.

The National Day celebration served as a platform to reaffirm the strong diplomatic and economic bonds between South Africa and China, highlighting their shared commitment to mutual growth, innovation, and global partnership.

The event concluded with cultural performances and a networking reception that brought together members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, and business leaders, all celebrating 76 years of China’s progress and its enduring friendship with South Africa.