How do you see China’s foreign policy in the new era after the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC)? What are the implications for Sino-South African relations?

The 19th CPC National Congress is a milestone event of profound historic significance at the decisive stage of completing the building of a moderately prosperous society in all aspects and a critical period of socialism with Chinese characteristics entering a new era. It proposed a series of new thoughts and new strategies, mapped out a new grand blueprint for future development, and made full deployment on advancing the cause of the CPC, the nation and diplomacy with Chinese characteristics.

It set up a new objective on forging a form of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness, justice and win-win cooperation, building a community with a shared future for mankind, and creating a brighter future for the global community. The objective is to build an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world that enjoys lasting peace, universal security and common prosperity.

Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, stressed that the Party strives for both the wellbeing of the Chinese people and human progress. China’s peaceful development is inseparable from a peaceful and prosperous world. Therefore, it is committed to building a beautiful China as well as a community with a shared future for mankind, making greater contribution to a better world.

These solemn commitments showcase that the CPC is ready to shoulder responsibility and see that its development benefits the whole world.

Both China and South Africa are influential emerging economies, co-chair countries of the FOCAC, and key members of multilateral platforms like BRICS, G20 and the United Nations. The two countries both see bilateral ties as one of their diplomatic priorities.