Media statement on conclusion of the Fifth Bi-National Commission between South Africa-The People's Republic of China

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe onWednesday, 30 October 2013, concluded his official visit to the People'sRepublic of China.

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe's visit on28-30 October was at the invitation of the Vice-President of the People's Republicof China, Li Yuanchao to attend the Fifth South Africa-China Bi-National Commission.

South Africa andChina enjoy strong bilateral relations which have been growing steadily overthe past 15 years.  As a result of thisgrowing co-operation, China is South Africa's number one trading partner andSouth Africa is China's number one trading partner in Africa. 

Trade between thetwo countries continues to grow and current volume stands at just over R200billion.  Over the past few years therehas been growing presence of Chinese companies in various sectorsof South Africa's economy. 

South Africa hope to see greater participation ofChinese companies in sectors such as, renewable energy, mining, banking,manufacturing, and rail infrastructure and rolling stock.

SouthAfrica and China will in the next two years mark the 15 years of diplomatic relationsin a unique way, through what is termed ‘South Africa's Year in China in 2014'and ‘China's Year in South Africa in 2015', which will see each of the twocountries hosting the other, characterised by activities and exchanges of highlevel visits.

DeputyPresident Motlanthe has left the People's Republic of China, and he will nowembark on a 2-day official visit to Mongolia with the objective ofstrengthening and deepening bilateral, political, social and economiccooperation between South Africa and Mongolia.

TheDeputy President is expected to arrive on Saturday, 02 November 2013, back inSouth Africa.

Enquiries: Thabo Masebe +2782 410 8087

Issuedby: The Presidency