President Xi Jinping said Tuesday that China and South Africa were "standing at a new historical starting point" as he met his counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria on a visit to attend a BRICS summit.
"Today, standing at a new historical starting point, inheriting friendship, deepening cooperation, and strengthening coordination are the common aspirations of the two countries, and are also the important tasks entrusted to us by the times," Xi said, according to a readout from state broadcaster CCTV.
Chinese President Xi flew to South Africa on Monday morning to attend the 15th BRICS summit. The visit will last until August 24. In addition to attending the BRICS summit, Xi planned to preside over a dialog between Chinese and African leaders.
Relations between South Africa and China were established on January 1, 1998, celebrating 25 years this year. The bilateral relations have since been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.