SA, China exchange shows ‘ubuntu’
Shared ideals of ‘coexistence, equality and responsibility’
THIS week’s SA-China People-to-People Exchange Mechanism (PPEM) and High level dialogue was lauded yesterday by both Minister of International Relations Maite Nkoana-Mashabane and China’s Vice-Premier Liu Yandong as being in the true spirit of ubuntu – “I am because you are”.
“Ubuntu is one of the basic principles of South Africa, expressing the close bond between people and the harmony between people and nature,” Liu said yesterday in her address at the Department of International Relations in Pretoria. “The idea is of coexistence, equality and responsibility. This is in line with the Chinese belief in benevolence, inclusiveness and harmony.”
Vice-Premier Liu outlined the long history of solidarity between China and South Africa, mentioning that Nelson Mandela had once said, “China has always been in my heart. When on Robben Island, every year on October 1 the inmates would secretly celebrate China’s national day, as we felt China symbolised the hope of oppressed nations. On Robben Island my spiritual support came from China.”
The nostalgic connections were also shared by Nkoana-Mashabane, who opened the high level dialogue saying, “Our relations and people-topeople interaction with the people of China dates back to our Struggle time and has grown over various epochs.”
Nkoana-Mashabane said South Africa was cultivating the seeds sown by leaders such as OR Tambo. “At the height of a repressive government, through his visits to China in 1963, 1975, and 1983, Tambo sought counsel and support that would contribute to our Struggle for freedom.
“Your relations with us have stood the test of time, you were with us in the most difficult times of our history… and you are with us as we try to transform our economy.”
She emphasised that Africa needed development, and said South Africa believed that in China “we have a friend we can depend on”. He highlighted the need for South Africa and China to think globally and act locally, and ensure people owned what belonged to them.
In Liu’s keynote address, she said: “This exchange will enhance dialogue between China and SA and promote mutual learning about our civilisations. The main purpose of my visit is to follow through on the important agreement between our presidents to establish the PPEM.” The PPEM is an important outcome of the 2015 Johannesburg Focac summit.
“China and Africa are important cradles of civilisation. The Chinese nation and African nations have similar aspirations and vision. We have strong resonance in our mindset and values,” Liu said.
Liu made reference to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s speech at the UN in Geneva, where he outlined what kind of world was wanted, and how to build it. Xi said countries should uphold dialogue and consultation, and the world must enjoy common prosperity. His message was that in a community of shared future for mankind – the future should be jointly decided and governed by all countries.
“This is in line with Chinese culture, which propagates appreciating the values of others, and is also in line with the UN Charter,” Liu said.
Both countries have made clear their commitment to pursuing equality, justice and harmony.
“We must carry forward the Bandung spirit to promote Asia-Africa co-operation. We must turn Brics into the most influential co-operation platform in the world. We must uphold global and regional peace and stability.
“We must steer against protectionism, and make globalisation more inclusive,” Liu told the packed conference hall at Dirco.