Ahead of the ninth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Focac) Summit, on Thursday, President Cyril Ramaphosa met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, in Beijing, on Monday, where Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa and China’s “mutually beneficial political and economic ties”.

Speaking at a welcome ceremony held for him, Ramaphosa expressed delight in Jinping’s proposal to upgrade China’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to an All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership with South Africa.

China has multiple such strategic partnerships with African and Asian countries.

“This will elevate our mutually beneficial political and economic ties for the benefit of both our countries and our people. As our history demands, South Africa will continue to pursue progressive internationalism. We remain firmly committed to the One China Policy. Our two countries share many common objectives,” Ramaphosa told Jinping.

He described China and South Africa’s political relationship as a foundation of an “unwavering and valuable friendship”.

Ramaphosa committed to promote African interests, as well as those of the Global South.

“I am confident that we will have the opportunity to openly exchange views on many issues regarding our political, economic and technical cooperation as outlined in the 10-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation. I am also confident that we will find common ground on key regional issues and other global challenges,” he said.

While there has been an increase in bilateral trade between South Africa and China, Ramaphosa stressed the need to narrow the deficit and focus on South Africa’s trade structure.

He further called for more investments that would result in sustainable manufacturing and job-creation.

“Development cooperation between our two countries continues to grow, covering many areas. We welcome the progress made in several Focac-related projects. Last year, South Africa hosted the tenth Brics Summit, and we appreciate China’s support for the positive outcomes achieved,” Ramaphosa said.

Speaking of the global conflicts affecting Africa and the Global South, Ramaphosa recommitted to cooperation with China on multilateral issues.

As it prepared to host the G20 Summit next year, South Africa’s focus would be on developmental challenges affecting Africa and the Global South, Ramaphosa promised.

“I look forward to engaging with you on many issues. I believe that our elevated levels of mutual trust will accommodate each other's interests, views and concerns – and deepen our cooperation as we build a shared future,” Ramaphosa said to Jinping.