Hon. Thulasizwe Dominic Buthelezi, MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, KwaZulu-Natal

Hon. Nontembeko Nothemba Boyce, Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature

His Worship Councillor Vusumuzi Cyril Xaba, Mayor of eThekwini Municipality

Representatives of Chinese enterprises,

Leaders and members of the Chinese community，

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,   

Good evening.

We are gathered here today to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. On behalf of the Consulate General of China in Durban, I wish to extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt thanks to all present, and to friends from all walks of life in KwaZulu-Natal who have long cared for and supported the development of China–South Africa relations.

Over the past 77 years, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people have worked with unity and determination, creating two miracles: the rapid economic development and long-term social stability. Today, China is advancing national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization on all fronts. Chinese modernization is modernization of a huge population, of common prosperity for all, of material and cultural-ethical advancement, of harmony between humanity and nature, and of peaceful development. This path has not only transformed China itself, but also injected strong momentum into global peace and development.

China has always been a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, and a defender of the international order. China has put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative — a systematic response to global challenges that brings greater certainty and positive energy to an increasingly turbulent world. Rooted in the practice of Chinese modernization and informed by the wisdom of Chinese civilization, these four initiatives reflect China's firm commitment to building a community with a shared future for mankind. As fellow members of the Global South, we stand ready to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with South Africa and other developing countries, uphold true multilateralism, and promote a more just and equitable global governance system.  

China has always firmly supported African countries in pursuing development paths suited to their own national conditions. On May 1 this year, China granted zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, including South Africa. This is a major unilateral opening-up measure at the outset of China's 15th Five-Year Plan period, and the first time a major economy has offered full-coverage zero-tariff access to all its African partners. Through tariff reductions, we aim to multiply trade and, more importantly, multiply livelihood benefits — opening up greater opportunities for Africa's development through China's vast market.

In September 2024, the heads of state of China and South Africa elevated bilateral relations to a new-era comprehensive strategic partnership, charting the course for our relationship. Today, China–South Africa relations are thriving: political mutual trust is deepening, practical cooperation is delivering higher-quality results across expanding fields, people-to-people exchanges are growing closer, and international coordination is becoming tighter. China has been South Africa’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years, with its stock of direct investment in the country exceeding US$11.7 billion and bilateral trade surpassing US$53.5 billion.

In less than half a year since my arrival in Durban, I have been deeply touched by the warmth and hospitality shown by all sectors of KwaZulu-Natal. I would like to express my gratitude for your support for me and the work of the Consulate General. I also feel privileged to have witnessed the vibrant development of exchanges between our communities. New progress has been achieved in the political, economic and trade, education, agriculture, and other domains.

Not long ago, Hon. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, MEC for COGTA, led a successful official visit to Guangdong, sister province of KZN, with productive exchanges in many fields. To avoid giving away any surprises, perhaps the Honourable MEC could do the introduction a bit later.  

This year, as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, the friendship between our peoples grows ever deeper. The excellent short videos and photos under "China Impressions" that you have just seen, created by young people in KZN, are a vivid testament to the truth that the bond between nations rests on the affinity between their peoples.

Looking ahead, we are ready to seize the opportunities of China's 15th Five-Year Plan, work hand in hand with all sectors of KZN, deepen mutual understanding, strengthen cooperation, and make the most of the zero-tariff policy to bring China–South Africa exchanges and cooperation to new heights.

In closing, I would like to propose a toast:

To the 77th anniversary of the People's Republic of China,

To the prosperity of China and South Africa and the enduring friendship between our peoples,

To the good health and every success of all our distinguished guests and friends,

Cheers!