Ramaphosa China Visit and the FOCAC Summit
President Cyril Ramaphosa China visit is set to embark on a significant diplomatic journey to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. This state visit, which coincides with the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, marks another milestone in the robust relationship between South Africa and China. Scheduled to take place in Beijing from Monday to Thursday next week, this visit is expected to strengthen economic ties, enhance strategic partnerships, and align both nations towards mutual goals on the global stage.
Historical Context
The relationship between South Africa and China has flourished since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1998. Over the past 25 years, the two countries have built a strong foundation of cooperation, rooted in shared interests and a commitment to mutual development. This bond was further cemented when President Xi Jinping visited South Africa for the fourth time last year, highlighting the depth of their partnership.
China as South Africa’s Largest Trading Partner
China has emerged as South Africa’s largest trading partner on a global scale, with bilateral trade between the two nations experiencing significant growth. In 2022, trade between China and South Africa reached R614 billion, which further increased to R692 billion in 2023. The key sectors driving this trade include mining, agriculture, and technology, reflecting the diverse and complementary nature of their economies.
The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP)
At the heart of South Africa-China relations is the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), which underscores the strategic importance of their bilateral ties. The CSP is guided by a 10-year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020-2029), designed to enhance collaboration across various sectors, including trade, investment, science and technology, and human development. This partnership has paved the way for numerous joint initiatives and has strengthened the political and economic bond between the two nations.
This visit underscores the strategic importance of the South Africa-China partnership in a rapidly changing world.
Day 1: Welcome Ceremony at the Great Hall of the People
Ramaphosa’s visit to China will officially commence with a grand welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People, one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. The Great Hall of the People is not only a symbol of China’s political power but also a venue where significant diplomatic engagements take place. The ceremony will set the tone for the state visit, emphasising the importance of South Africa-China relations in the current global context.
Honouring Chinese Revolutionaries
Before the bilateral engagements begin, President Ramaphosa will pay his respects to Chinese revolutionaries by laying a wreath at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in Tiananmen Square. This gesture is a powerful symbol of the historical ties between the two nations and underscores South Africa’s recognition of China’s revolutionary history and its impact on the nation’s development.
Signing of Bilateral Agreements
During the visit, South Africa and China will sign several agreements aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and technical collaboration. These agreements will focus on critical areas such as human settlements, agriculture, and science and technology. By strengthening these sectors, both countries aim to foster sustainable development and improve the quality of life for their citizens.
Day 2: Visit to Shenzhen
On the second day of his visit, President Ramaphosa will travel to Shenzhen, an economic and technological powerhouse in China’s Guangdong province. Shenzhen is renowned for its rapid development and innovation, making it a key player in China’s economic landscape. Here, Ramaphosa will meet with industry leaders and visit the headquarters of two major tech companies. This visit is part of the bilateral business program and aims to explore opportunities for collaboration in technology and innovation.
South Africa-China Business Forum
As part of his economic diplomacy efforts, President Ramaphosa will address the South Africa-China Business Forum on Wednesday. The forum, which will take place on the margins of the FOCAC Summit in Beijing, is a platform for business leaders from both nations to discuss trade, investment, and economic cooperation. Key topics of discussion will include expanding market access, enhancing technological collaboration, and promoting sustainable development initiatives. The outcomes of this forum are expected to further solidify the economic ties between South Africa and China.
Day 3: Participation in the FOCAC Summit
The highlight of Ramaphosa’s visit will be his participation in the FOCAC Summit, which will bring together leaders from across Africa and China to discuss the future of China-Africa relations. This year’s summit is themed “Joining hands to advance modernisation and build a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future.” The discussions will focus on enhancing cooperation in industrialisation, agricultural modernisation, and green development, areas that are crucial for Africa’s development.
Co-Chairing the High-Level Panel Seminar
In addition to attending the summit, President Ramaphosa will co-chair a high-level panel seminar alongside Mr. Wang Huning, Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. This seminar will delve into the intricacies of accompanying Africa on its path to modernisation, with a particular focus on industrialisation, agricultural modernisation, and green development. The seminar aims to align China’s support with Africa’s development goals, as outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
FOCAC serves as a vital platform for aligning China’s support with Africa’s ambitious development goals outlined in Agenda 2063.
South Africa’s Position on Development
South Africa’s participation in FOCAC is deeply rooted in its commitment to advancing Africa’s development agenda. The country’s stance is informed by the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions “the Africa we want” by 2063. This ambitious agenda outlines several flagship programs aimed at transforming Africa’s socio-economic landscape. During the summit, South Africa will advocate for these programs, ensuring that Africa’s development priorities are at the forefront of China-Africa cooperation.
Outcome Documents of the FOCAC Summit
As the FOCAC Summit concludes, a declaration and an action plan for 2025-2027 will be issued. These documents will outline the key areas of cooperation and set the agenda for the next phase of China-Africa relations. The outcome documents are expected to focus on industrialisation, infrastructure development, trade, and investment, aligning with the goals of both China and Africa.
Accompanying Delegation
President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by a high-level delegation of cabinet ministers, each playing a crucial role in the state visit. These ministers represent portfolios such as international relations and cooperation, science and technology, human settlements, small business development, and trade and industry. Their involvement underscores the multi-faceted nature of the South Africa-China partnership. Additionally, the inclusion of provincial premiers, such as Oscar Mabuyane of the Eastern Cape and Phophi Ramathuba of Limpopo, highlights the importance of regional cooperation in strengthening bilateral ties.
Conclusion: Ramaphosa China Visit and the FOCAC Summit
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s state visit to China and his participation in the FOCAC Summit are significant moments for South Africa-China relations. This visit not only reaffirms the strong ties between the two nations but also sets the stage for future cooperation in key areas such as trade, technology, and development. As South Africa continues to champion Africa’s development agenda, its partnership with China will play a crucial role in achieving the continent’s long-term goals.
FAQs – Ramaphosa China Visit and the FOCAC Summit
What is the significance of Ramaphosa’s visit to China?
Ramaphosa’s visit is crucial for strengthening the strategic partnership between South Africa and China, enhancing economic ties, and advancing Africa’s development agenda through the FOCAC Summit.
How does China benefit from its relationship with South Africa?
China benefits from its relationship with South Africa through increased trade, investment opportunities, and collaboration in sectors such as technology and agriculture. South Africa also serves as a gateway for China’s engagement with the broader African continent.
What is the FOCAC Summit, and why is it important?
The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit is a platform for China and African nations to discuss and coordinate their development agendas. It is important because it shapes the future of China-Africa relations and drives cooperation in key areas like trade, industrialisation, and infrastructure.
How will the agreements signed during the visit impact South Africa?
The agreements are expected to boost South Africa’s economic growth, enhance technical cooperation, and improve infrastructure development, particularly in human settlements, agriculture, and science and technology.
What role does the African Union’s Agenda 2063 play in the FOCAC Summit?
Agenda 2063 is a strategic framework for Africa’s socio-economic transformation. During the FOCAC Summit, South Africa will advocate for this agenda, ensuring that Africa’s development priorities are integrated into China-Africa cooperation initiatives.
