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On September 18, 2023, a signing ceremony took place at the National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) in Pretoria, marking a significant step forward in the enhancement of the existing measurement cooperation between the Fujian province of China and South Africa. Meng Qian, Director of the Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission of the People's Republic of China, and Dr Wynand Louw, the Director: Regional, International Relations, and Innovation, representing NMISA, came together to formalise their intended commitment to advance metrology collaboration between the Fujian province and South Africa. 

This event was the further culmination of discussions initiated to implement the agreements reached by the leaders of China and South Africa during the 2017 BRICS Leaders' Meeting in Xiamen and the 2023 BRICS Leaders' Summit held in South Africa. The signing of this letter of intent demonstrates the shared commitment to enhance metrology cooperation, reinforcing the already strong ties between the two nations. 

NMISA has a long-standing relationship with the People’s Republic of China through its collaborations with the National Institute of Metrology of China, the Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou Institutes for Measurement and Testing, the Chengdu National Institute of Measurement and Testing Technology, the Chinese Metrology Association and several other provincial measurement institutes. On a national level and on a regional level the Fujian Provincial Institute of Metrology also aided the Intra-Africa metrology system (AFRIMETS) by donating two infrared temperature standards to the African region which was hosted at South Africa and assisted with the Institute for Africa's fight against the virus.

Key discussions included:

Solid Foundation for Cooperation: Both parties acknowledge the strong foundation for collaboration between Fujian and South Africa, with particular emphasis on the field of metrology. This foundation is seen as harbouring immense potential for further cooperation.

Significance of Strengthened Metrology Cooperation: Recognising the pivotal role of metrology in fostering economic and social development, both parties underscored the importance of their cooperation in enhancing the well-being of their respective populations.

Donation of Measuring Equipment: Both parties highlighted the importance of a donation of measuring equipment, recognising it as a cornerstone for future cooperation, enabling the development of more robust metrology capabilities.

Commitment to Deepen Mutual Understanding: Both parties commit to further deepening mutual understanding and fostering enhanced cooperation based on the consensus established during the meeting.

Scholar Exchange Program: In the spirit of enhancing mutual trust and understanding, both parties agreed to develop a plan for exchanging visiting scholars at a suitable time in the future.

Formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): Both parties have committed to signing an MoU in the near future that solidifies the collaboration.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Deputy Minister Fikile Majola, representing the South African government, who witnessed the signing ceremony on behalf of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic). 

The Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission also handed over a ceremonial plaque that represents the equipment to be donated by the Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission to NMISA later this year. The instruments will strengthen the capability of NMISA to calibrate measurement standards at the NMIs in the SADC region, and to deliver services to SOES and industry, as part of its strategy to establish an Applied metrology capability. 

The signing ceremony was attended by distinguished guests and representatives from both nations, underscoring the importance and high-level support of this collaboration. 

About the National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA):

NMISA is sub-Sahara’s foremost institution for measurement science and metrology, and the only metrology institute in Africa with membership of all the consultative committees (CCs) of the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM). It ensures accuracy and reliability in measurement, serving as a critical support pillar for economic and technological advancements in South Africa and beyond, and through the membership of the CCs, connect the African measurement system internationally.

About the Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission:

The Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission is a key government agency in Fujian province, China, responsible for economic planning, development, and cooperation. It plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable economic growth and development.

Issued by The dti