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Press Release
23 November 2012
Deputy Minister Ebrahim to co-chair 5th South Africa-China Strategic Dialogue Mechanism Meeting
The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ebrahim Ebrahim and the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Zhai Jun, will co-chair the 5th South Africa-China Strategic Dialogue Mechanism on 26 November 2012 in Pretoria.
The meeting takes place within the context of the Strategic Dialogue Mechanism, which is an instrument, at Deputy Minister Level, by which the two countries consolidate and strengthen their relations as well as monitor implementation of bilateral agreements.
South Africa and the People’s Republic of China enjoy cordial relations which are now at the Strategic Partnership level. In this regard, frequent high visits take place, various agreements have been signed and the volume of trade has increased.
In 2011, South Africa’s total bilateral trade with China amounted to some R188 billion. South Africa had a deficit of some R18 billion. Between January and June this year, the trade amounted to R97 billion, with a South African deficit of about R11 billion. Both countries are working hard to achieve an equitable trade balance.
Among the issues to be discussed during the meeting are South Africa’s bilateral relations with China; strengthening cooperation on the African Continent, reform of the global system of governance, and international and regional issues of common interest.
Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim will be accompanied by senior officials from various Government Departments, as well as representatives from the Development Bank of Southern African (DBSA).
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
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