South Africa and China have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in science, technology and artificial intelligence (AI) following a high-level bilateral meeting held during the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, met with China’s Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Yin Hejun, to discuss new opportunities for collaboration aimed at advancing research, innovation and technological development between the two countries.
The meeting underscored the growing strategic partnership between South Africa and China, with both nations exploring ways to strengthen cooperation in several priority areas.
These include artificial intelligence, quantum computing, space science and astronomy, cybersecurity, joint research centres and laboratories, youth development, public engagement in science, and the Young Scientists Exchange Programme.
During the discussions, Nzimande expressed South Africa’s appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for inviting the country to the formal launch of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO). South Africa is one of the founding members of the new international body, which aims to promote global cooperation on the responsible development and governance of artificial intelligence.
The Minister also welcomed the opening address delivered by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the conference, describing it as insightful and reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to supporting the successful establishment and operation of WAICO.
As part of efforts to strengthen scientific collaboration, Nzimande shared South Africa’s plans to establish a national science and technology museum that will promote scientific learning and innovation among young people and the broader public.
He also thanked China for naming South Africa as the Country of Honour at the 19th Pujiang Innovation Forum, which will take place in China in September 2026. The recognition is expected to showcase South Africa’s scientific achievements and create new opportunities for partnerships between researchers, innovators and industry leaders from both countries.
The Minister further expressed gratitude for China’s support of South Africa’s G20 Presidency and invited the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology to participate in Science Forum South Africa, Africa’s leading international science conference, scheduled for December this year.
The World Artificial Intelligence Conference 2026 comes as South Africa marks National Science Month in July, highlighting the importance of science, technology and innovation in driving economic growth, creating jobs and addressing global challenges.
The strengthened partnership between South Africa and China is expected to boost research collaboration, develop future scientific talent and accelerate innovation in emerging technologies that will shape the country’s digital future.
