Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with Japan during a working visit marking 115 years of relations between the two nations.
Speaking at United Nations University in Tokyo, the Deputy President underscored South Africa’s ongoing collaboration with Japan, highlighting the Strategic Cooperation Partnership established in 2010.
“This year, the two countries celebrate a significant milestone of 115 years of relations,” he said.
He also praised Japan’s significant investment in South Africa, with 273 firms currently operating in the country and sustaining over 200,000 local jobs.
“These ties have particularly flourished in the fields of trade and investment, science and technology, and education and skills development assistance. Japan is a significant investor in the South African economy, with 273 firms operating in the country, hence sustaining over 200 000 local employment opportunities for many South Africans,” he said.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Deputy President held fruitful engagements with the Prime Minister as well as with the Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan. He said these meetings were a sign of the significant people, and trade relations between the two sister countries.
Beyond economic ties, cultural exchanges were also in focus. The Deputy President visited the historic Meiji Jingu forest, where he reflected on the importance of nature in fostering societal development, linking it to the African philosophy of Ubuntu.
“This visit served as a reminder of how the forest and nature more cements the importance of connecting with nature what has been appreciated as Kami.
“We have a lot in common as a people, hence we will continue to invest in people-to-people cultural exchange programmes. This is already happening through the number of rugby players that are playing in various teams here in Japan. We are emphasising the importance of people to people because it becomes easier to do business when you know each others’ cultures,” the Deputy President said.
Strengthening economic cooperation
The visit comes at a time when South Africa is looking to bolster international partnerships in light of current geopolitical challenges confronting the nation and the global community.
The Deputy President emphasised that his delegation’s trip was aimed at fortifying economic collaborations, particularly in inclusive economic development and trade balance.
“We want our two nations to collaborate with a particular emphasis on promoting inclusive economic development and ensuring a balance and increase in trade between the two nations.
“This has also been one of the priorities of South Africa’s 7th Administration, popularly known as the Government of National Unity (GNU). The formation of the Government of National Unity is a momentous development in South Africa’s democracy,” he said.
South Africa’s leadership in the G20 was also highlighted, with the Deputy President reiterating the country’s vision for its presidency under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”
“We want to make a meaningful contribution to the expressions of the continent through Vision 2063 towards the Africa we want. Such an Africa is one that is more integrated into the global community and acts as a key player in the economy and the socio-political landscape more broadly.
“We believe that in an interconnected world, the challenges faced by one country have an impact at a global level,” he said.
Call for global cooperation
The Deputy President concluded his address by emphasising the importance of global cooperation in addressing challenges such as climate change, rising nationalism, and economic instability.
“As I conclude, let me emphasise that our challenges can only be resolved through cooperation, collaboration, and partnership; no challenge and no triumph exist in isolation. Cooperation is our greatest strength and our most powerful weapon.
“Under the guiding principle of Ubuntu – the profound belief that ‘I am because you are’ – we are reminded of the interconnectedness of humanity. It is this principle of Ubuntu that underpins South Africa’s leadership and vision for our G20 Presidency, and our future,” the Deputy President said.
He further urged everyone to remember that true progress is achieved not through words alone but through meaningful action and collaboration.
“We should be deliberate in our conversation and find more meaningful ways to strengthen our relations, both in trade, and investment. Let us work hand in hand towards a more just, equitable, and sustainable world for all,” he said.
The Deputy President arrived in Japan on Sunday and will conclude his visit on Wednesday, 19 March.
READ | Deputy President Mashatile arrives in Japan for a working visit
– SAnews.gov.za
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