The relations between China and South Africa have entered a "golden age," Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Monday.
"This year marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and South Africa, the relations between the two countries have entered a 'golden age," Xi said during a meeting with South Africa Deputy President Paul Mashatile in Beijing, as cited by the China Central Television (CCTV) broadcaster.
China is ready to work together with South Africa to continuously develop the comprehensive strategic partnership, contributing to the promotion of relations between the two countries to a new level, Xi added.
In late August, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also lauded relations between the countries, noting that Pretoria is ready to further cooperate closely with Beijing in a mutually beneficial way.
Ramaphosa also noted the exponential growth in trade since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the countries, but acknowledged the trade deficit in favor of China. The South African president suggested that the solution lies in facilitating greater access to the Chinese market for South African goods, high value-added products and services, and stressed the importance of boosting trade.
South Africa and China also share membership in the BRICS bloc, which embraces also Brazil, Russia and India.