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Peace and stability key for a better world

Location: News

Peace and stability key for a better world

Leaders at the BRICS summit have reiterated their commitment to joint efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability, which is key to advancing development and the agenda of the Global South.

Speaking on the second day of the 15th BRICS Summit Open Plenary session in Sandton, Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa said peace and stability are preconditions for a better, more equitable world.

He said the BRICS countries are deeply concerned about conflicts across the world that continue to cause great suffering and hardship. 

“As South Africa, our position remains that diplomacy, dialogue, negotiation and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter are necessary for the peaceful and just resolution of conflicts,” the President said on Wednesday.

The 15th BRICS Summit is taking place under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism”. South Africa is hosting the summit that is being attended by the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and China, among other countries.

In recent months, President Ramaphosa has been in conversation with President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine, President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, leaders of BRICS countries and the Secretary-General of the United Nations regarding efforts to facilitate a peaceful process to end the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

These conversations have been in line with South Africa’s standing as a non-aligned state.

Meanwhile, Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva used his opening remarks at the summit to express his commitment to work with all countries for global peace and development.

“The quest for peace is a collaborative obligation and an imperative for a fair, developed and sustainable development. It is unacceptable that global military expenditure in one year goes beyond two trillion dollars while 735 million people are in hunger every day in the world,” he said.

With the ongoing war in Ukraine and Russia, da Silva said Brazil is ready to join efforts that can effectively contribute to an immediate cease-fire and fair and everlasting peace.

“As BRICS countries, we all suffer the consequences of the war. The most vulnerable populations in the developing countries are the ones that are hit more in an unproportional way. We do not underestimate the difficulties to reach peace; neither can we be indifferent to the deaths with the destruction that increases every day.

“BRICS should act as a force for understanding and for cooperation. Our willingness is expressed in the contribution that was given by China, South Africa and Brazil in all endeavours to a conflict resolution in Ukraine. We believe that it is positive that a growing number of countries among BRICS countries also are engaged in direct contact with Moscow and Kiev,” he said.

He said the risks associated with conflict are unacceptable for humanity.

“The Ukraine-Russia war shows the limitations of the United Nations (UN) Security Council. Many other crises do not have the same attention. BRICS is a forum to discuss the main issues that affect peace and world security.

“The main conflict that is happening in Ukraine has global effects. Brazil has a historical position to defend the sovereignty and integrity of the territory and the principles that are followed by the UN,” da Silva said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 14:23

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BRICS a force to be reckoned with

Location: News

BRICS a force to be reckoned with

Russian President Vladimir Putin says the BRICS countries have rightly proved to be an equitable entity on the global arena with ever growing influence in global affairs. 

“The strategic course of BRICS is aimed at the future and it meets the aspirations of the main part of the international community, the so-called global majority,” Putin said.

Putin was speaking virtually on the second day of the 15th BRICS Summit, currently underway in South Africa.

By acting in concert on the principles of the equality partner support and the countries which have interest, Putin said Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) deal with the most pressing issues of global and the regional agenda. 

“The main important thing is that BRICS stands for a multiple world order that is equitable and build on international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter, including respect. The BRICS countries are building up their potential and home to three billion people. 

“Over the past decades, BRICS investments to the global economy have doubled and the cumulative export reached 20 percent of the overall indicator. We are successfully implementing the strategy for the BRICS economic partnership 2025,” Putin highlighted. 

He also reiterated the importance of speedy development of trans-continental routes, such as north and south corridor, which will, in the future ensure the annual transit of up to 30 million tons of cargo.

“We believe that it is high time to establish a BRICS permanent commission on transport that will deal, not only with north [and] south projects, but in broader terms, it will deal with logistics and transport corridors development, both inter regional and global ones. 

“Should the partners agree to that, the Russian side could work on this idea within its chairmanship in 2024, and certainly we welcome strengthened interaction within BRICS,” Putin said.

In terms of global innovations, Putin said Russia is looking forward to a more active cooperation within the BRICS global research advanced infrastructure network, noting that it could be supported and developed by a special trust fund.

For its part, he said, Russia is ready to share experiences and best practices, including when it comes to digital transformation and the use of artificial intelligence. 

He said the country also support the proposal of South Africa to organise a separate Ministry on Women Affairs, saying their role in political, economic and social lives of states should be harnessed.

Putin also commended South Africa for the role it played as chairman of  BRICS, noting that it has received positive assessments for the BRICS activities.

He announced that Russia will next year assume BRICS chairmanship, and the country is planning to have 200 political, economic and public events to be hosted by Russian cities, amongst others. 

He said the BRICS Summit is scheduled for October 2024 at the city of Kazan in Russia, at a date still to be announced.

Peace and stability preconditions for a better world

Meanwhile, commenting on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Putin said Russia decided to support people that fight for their culture, traditions, language, and their future.  

“Our actions in Ukraine are guided by only one thing ... to end the war that was unleashed by the West and its satellites against the people who live in the Donbas. We thank our colleagues within BRICS that [have] taken active part in the attempts to put an end to this situation, and to ensure just settlements by peaceful means,” Putin said.

He added that the main thing is that “we unanimously stand for the shaping of the multiple world order, which is genuinely equitable and build on international law”. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa in his address at the Open Plenary of the 15th BRICS Summit also shared the similar sentiments saying peace and stability are preconditions for a better, more equitable world.

"We are deeply concerned about conflicts across the world that continue to cause great suffering and hardship.

"As South Africa, our position remains that diplomacy, dialogue, negotiation and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter are necessary for the peaceful and just resolution of conflicts," President Ramaphosa said.

He said the new economic, political, social and technological realities call for greater cooperation between nations.

"These realities call for a fundamental reform of the institutions of global governance so that they may be more representative and better able to respond to the challenges that confront humanity."

While firmly committed to advance the interests of the Global South, President Ramaphosa said BRICS stands ready to collaborate with all countries that aspire to create a more inclusive international order. - SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 16:35

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India ‘fully supports’ BRICS expansion

Location: News

India 'fully supports' BRICS expansion

The Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has thrown his weight behind the expansion of the BRICS membership.

“India fully supports the expansion of BRICS membership and welcomes moving forward based on this consensus.”

Modi was speaking on Wednesday at the opening plenary session of the 15th BRICS Summit, which is currently underway at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

The leaders of the emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - met for the second day of the BRICS Summit.

Under its chairship in 2016, the Prime Minister said India defined the block as a group building responsive and inclusive collective solutions. 

“Seven years later, we can say that BRICS will be breaking barriers, revitalising economies, inspiring innovation, creating opportunities and shaping the future. 

“Together, with all BRICS partners, we’ll continue to actively build and make this new definition meaningful,” he said on day two of the three day summit.

Over 20 countries have formally applied to join BRICS and several others have expressed an interest in becoming part of the bloc. 

Modi also noted that global south countries have been given “special importance” in BRICS under South Africa’s chairship. 

“This is not just an expectation of the present times but a necessity as well,” the Prime Minister said. 

Modi said he also proposed that all the BRICS nations and the African Union be permanent members of the G20. 

“Under a G20 Presidency, India has given this subject the highest priority based on our core value of one heart and one family and we’re moving forward together with all countries.

“I am sure all the BRICS partners are also together in the G20 and all will support our proposal.”

He has described the last two decades as long and magnificent for BRICS. 

Modi also highlighted some of the bloc’s achievements, including the New Development Bank (NDB). 

According to Modi, the NDB plays an important role in the development of the countries in the global south through contingency reserve arrangements. 

He also spoke briefly about initiatives such as the BRICS satellite constellation, vaccine R&D centre and mutual recognition of pharma products. 

“We’re bringing about positive [change] in the lives of ordinary citizens in BRICS countries through initiatives such as the youth summit, BRICS Games, BRICS Think Tanks Council and strengthening people-to-people ties between all countries.”

However, to give the BRICS agenda a new direction, he believes the leaders should push for a railway research network, an online BRICS database and close cooperation between start-up forums. 

“I am pleased that significant progress has been made in all these areas.” 

He also suggested creating a space exploration consortium that could focus on space research and weather monitoring for global good. 

Call for cooperation

Modi also called for cooperation in the areas of education, skills development and technology to make BRICS a future-ready organisation. 

To identify each other’s strengths, Modi proposed a skills mapping exercise to complement each other in their development journey. 

He also advocated for the protection of big cats between the five countries and building a repository for traditional medicine. 

The Prime Minister also congratulated President Cyril Ramaphosa for hosting a successful summit. 

“Congratulations and thanks to my dear friend President Ramaphosa for the wonderful arrangements made for the organisation of the 15th BRICS Summit and his hospitality.” 

He also reflected on Mahatma Gandhi’s role in South Africa.

“He laid a strong foundation for our unity and mutual harmony,” he said. 

In response, President Ramaphosa congratulated India for successfully landing a spacecraft near the moon's south pole, making it the first country to do so. This as India successfully landed  the Chandrayaan-3. 

 “This for us as the BRICS family is a momentous occasion and we join you in the joy of this achievement.”

He said the bloc also supports the skills development proposal and said South Africa was pleased that it donated cheetahs to India and is prepared to provide more. 

Meanwhile, President Ramaphosa said the global south should continue to be an area of focus. 

“We want to wish you well as you continue to prepare to host the G20 summit… and we will surely participate,” he said. 

“We’re heartened to hear that India supports the expansion of BRICS. This is the matter we are discussing and we hope to find a clear solution to this matter as we discuss it amongst ourselves as BRICS leaders.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 16:04

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The house of BRICS may be expanding

Location: News

The house of BRICS may be expanding

A decision on the much-speculated possible expansion of the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) group of countries is imminent.

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was making remarks during the 15th BRICS Summit currently underway at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

“We stand at the cusp of expanding the BRICS family because it is through this expansion that we will be able to have a much stronger BRICS in these turbulent times that we live in. We await the decision that will be taken by the BRICS leaders in this regard, in due course, as we go on with our Summit.

“We stand at another momentous moment. This is a matter that we are discussing and hopefully we will find a clear solution to this matter as we discuss it among ourselves as BRICS leaders,” President Ramaphosa said.

In its current iteration, the group includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and reports have suggested that in excess of 20 countries – mainly from the global south – have registered their interest in joining the group.

Any announced expansion of the BRICS group is expected to propel the group towards increased global influence in world relations as it already represents more than 40% of the world’s population (at least 3 billion people) and some 31% of the global GDP.

Delivering his remarks, Chinese President Xi Jinping – a known proponent of the expansion – said the process to bring more countries under the BRICS umbrella must be “accelerated”.

“I am glad to see the growing enthusiasm of developing countries about participating in BRICS cooperation and quite a number of them have applied to join the BRICS cooperation mechanism.

“We need to make good use of the BRICS plus cooperation format and accelerate the BRICS expansion process to bring more countries into the BRICS family so as to pool our strength, pool our wisdom to make global governance more just and equitable,” he said.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his country endorses bringing more countries into the fold.

“India fully supports the expansion of BRICS membership and we welcome moving forward on this based on consensus.

“In 2016 during India’s [BRICS] presidency, we had defined BRICS as a group building responsive, collective and inclusive solutions. Seven years later, we can say that BRICS will be breaking barriers, revitalising economies, inspiring innovation, creating opportunities and shaping the future,” he said.

Russia President, Vladimir Putin, who addressed the Summit via video link, said when that country takes the lead of the group next year, any decision taken in this regard will be supported.

“During our chairmanship [of the BRICS group in 2024], we would like to do our utmost to efficiently facilitate the implementation of decisions adopted at this summit including with regard to the expansion of BRICS.”

At the BRICS Business Council on Tuesday evening, Brazil President Lula da Silva hinted that growth of the group will only enhance its relevance.

“BRICS has a unique chance of shaping the global development path. Together, our countries make up a third of the global economy. This relevance will grow with the admission of new full members and dialogue partners. Collaboration between the public and private sector is vital for harnessing this potential and achieving lasting results,” President da Silva said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 15:10

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Young people call for establishment of BRICS Youth Council

Location: News

Young people call for establishment of BRICS Youth Council

Making their voices heard at the 15th BRICS Summit, young people across the member states have called for the establishment of a BRICS Youth Council.

Addressing the summit currently underway in Johannesburg on Wednesday, National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Chairperson Asanda Luwaca said the recent 9th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India China, and South Africa) Youth Summit reached a consensus on the establishment of a Youth Council.

“This will allow us to ensure deeper and stronger collaborations among young people. We thus implore that this summit endorse our proposal for the establishment for the BRICS Youth Council in its final declaration in ensuring that new pathways for positive change and innovation can be realised.

“In doing so, it will further ensure that no young person among the BRICS member states gets left behind. Young people in their collective believe that youth are the present and the future. Our interaction as BRICS member states cannot and should not be limited to an annual summit,” Luwaca said.

Taking place under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism”, the summit is being attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China, as well as South Africa, as the host.

Noting that young people make up the larger proportion of the population of each of the BRICS countries, Luwaca emphasised that the voices and views of the youth are critical as nations forge a post-pandemic society at the highest making forums.

“We believe that the BRICS countries in general and youth in particular should use their collective strengths to prioritise the development paradigm, using as a guiding principle for our work as we continue the intra BRICS cooperation across areas such as trade, education, skills development and training, economic participation and transformation, health and well-being and social cohesion.

“At our 9th Youth Summit, we presented the draft framework for the establishment of a BRICS Youth Council, which will become the coordination body for youth development between BRICS member countries and will join formations such as the BRICS Business Council, BRICS Women’s Alliance and the new Development Bank,” she said.

Last month, the NYDA hosted the 9th BRICS Youth Summit and the Meeting of Ministers responsible for Youth Affairs, under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism”.

The BRICS Youth Summit is a platform for dialogue for delegates from member states, striving for the promotion of peace, security, development in a multi-polar inter-dependent and increasingly complex, globalizing world.

The objectives of the summit are to bring together youth participants, affording them an opportunity to share ideas and work on a concrete Action Plan for co-operation in economic, humanitarian, mass media, and science sphere.

This year, South Africa as the head of BRICS directed the summit to focus on discussions that aim to encourage young leaders among BRICS nations to actively participate in addressing the most significant global challenges, economic, social issues, and contribute to the developmental agenda. 

It further called for a focus on constructive engagements on issues relating to youth empowerment, the advancement of youth development and in creating a conducive environment where youth will devise a path to a brighter and better future.

The Youth Summit preceded the BRICS Ministers responsible for Youth Affairs meeting, which was attended by the Youth Ministers; Heads of Executive Authorities for Youth; Senior Government Officials; and youth.

The outcomes of the BRICS Youth Summit will be presented to the Ministers’ Meeting for decision-making and adoption of the presentations and resolutions made by delegates from the summit. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 12:11

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Indian Prime Minister’s meeting with President of South Africa

Location: News

Ministry of External Affairs - Government of India
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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met H.E. Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa on 23 August 2023 in Johannesburg on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS Summit.

Both leaders reviewed the progress made in bilateral relations between the two countries and expressed satisfaction at the progress achieved in various fields including defence, agriculture, trade and investment, health, conservation and people to people ties.

Both sides also exchanged views on continued coordination in multilateral bodies and regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest. President Ramaphosa expressed full support for India's G20 presidency and appreciated India's initiative for giving the African Union full membership of G-20. He conveyed that he looked forward to visiting New Delhi for the G-20 Summit.

Prime Minister congratulated President Ramaphosa on the successful hosting of the BRICS Summit. Prime Minister accepted President Ramaphosa's invitation to pay a State Visit to South Africa at a mutually convenient date.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of External Affairs - Government of India.

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Chinese donation to aid in load shedding

Location: News

Chinese donation to aid in load shedding

At least 500 public facilities around the country are set to benefit from a donation from China which will allow them to have uninterrupted alternative power supply and shield them from the effects of load shedding.

The donation includes generators, power supply vehicles and off grid PV energy storage supply systems.

This was announced by Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, during the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with eight Chinese entities.

The signing ceremony was held on the side lines of the BRICS Summit, currently underway in Johannesburg.

“Yesterday we exchanged letters in relation to the technical equipment that will be assisting us to provide sustainable electricity to some of the major public installations like clinics, hospitals and police stations. We are going to get 552 of those units [and] 450 of them are already on the way.

“It means that over 500 public facilities…are now going to have access to uninterrupted alternative power supply and thank you to the Chinese for the generous contribution. [The equipment] range from 6kw up to 200kw [and] 200kw can support a clinic and a medium sized hospital so this is true relief to the South African people,” he said.

The South African government has already moved to exclude some 76 hospitals from load shedding with work underway to shield at least 46 others from rolling power cuts being implemented in the country.

Cooperation between countries

On the MoC signed by the parties, the Minister explained that the Chinese entities have valuable experience and technology that can assist Eskom and by extension, the country.

The MoC was entered into by Ramokgopa on behalf of the South African government and Chinese entities:

  • State Grid Corporation of China
  • China-Africa Development Fund
  • China Energy International Group
  • China General Nuclear Power Corporation
  • China National Electric Engineering Company, Ltd
  • Huawei Technologies Co Ltd
  • TBEA CO., LTD.
  • Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organisation

“They have experienced a similar problem that we are experiencing now. Second, they’ve got the biggest coal generation capacity of any country in the world. They’ve got the biggest installed renewable energy capacity of any country in the world…about 688GW.

"The amount of renewables they have is twelve times the size of Eskom. They are sitting on extensive amounts of liquidity. We can tap into that financing which is concessional and cheaper than any other. They [also] have the biggest installed capacity of nuclear of any country in the world.

“Even before today, almost all of them have been helping us on the generation side and have already generated a number of reports on how best we can improve the issues of performance of the coal fired powered stations and also reduce the emissions levels, on how to reduce the technical losses on the grid and also on the transmission side and what is required in relation to planning and accommodating new renewables on the grid,” he said.

Load shedding

Turning to questions on whether this agreement will remove load shedding, the Minister remained coy.

“When I came into office, the President [Cyril Ramaphosa] said we are short of 6000MW. Since March when we were appointed, we have added 4000MW. At Tutuka there’s a potential…there’s three units that must come on stream, they’ll give us 1680MW. We are going to fire one unit at Kusile in October, 800MW. We are going to fire three units…we are getting 2400MW. That…gives you 8940MW or so.

“But we have not resolved load shedding. The first phase is to make sure that what we are going through is eliminated and I am telling you, we are going to get those megawatts. We must build sufficient capacity to allow the economy of the country to grow at the desired rate and the rate of growth of new generation capacity must surpass the rate of economic growth,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 12:35

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Innovation key to thriving in a changing world, says Minister Patel

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Innovation key to thriving in a changing world, says Minister Patel

Business as usual is no longer an option, and the ability to innovate and adapt in a world characterised by volatility and fractiousness is the key to thriving, says Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel.

"Today, the world is more polarised, climate change is more pressing and the speed of technological innovation is increasing rapidly.

“These trends in turn are reshaping our economies and societies in more profound ways than many could project," Patel said on Tuesday.

The Minister officially opened the BRICS Business Forum as South Africa hosts the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and China at the 15th BRICS Summit.

The event, which kicked off on Tuesday, will wrap up on Thursday. The summit brings together 1 200 delegates from South Africa, Brazil, Russia, India, China, and several African nations.

Patel used the platform to draw attention to the collective economic might of the BRICS nations, which together account for over a quarter of the world's economic output.

Highlighting South Africa's remarkable achievements in exports, Patel acknowledged the large contingent of exporting firms, noting that South Africa exported goods worth R2 trillion last year, constituting nearly one third of the nation's gross domestic product.

He praised the establishment of significant institutions like the New Development Bank, emphasising the importance of networks for policy exchanges and knowledge-sharing.

He underscored the BRICS countries’ commitment to a worldview founded on the right to develop independently without relying on others.

Acknowledging the transformative power of industrialisation, trade and technological development, Patel hailed the African Continental Free Trade Area, which unites 54 nations and offers a platform to spur African industrialisation and innovation.

He stressed that Africa is no longer just a raw material supplier but an “emerging force of innovation and industrialisation in the global arena”.

He called on the BRICS Business Forum to explore how companies and firms in BRICS economies can grow and prosper through collaboration and partnership.

He urged investment and trade practices that support the industrialisation and welfare enhancement of developing nations.

This forum meeting, Patel said, provides the framework for forging valuable business-to-business partnerships and contributing to the world's shared prosperity.

Notable figures such as Dilma Rousseff, the President of the New Development Bank; Fernando Haddad, the Minister of Finance of Brazil; Mozambican Industry and Commerce Minister Silvino Augusto José Moreno, and the leaders of the respective BRICS Business Council Chapters attended the meeting. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 09:43

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Chinese President Xi awarded Order of South Africa

Location: News

The State Council Information Office: The People's Republic of China
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Chinese President Xi Jinping received the Order of South Africa from President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday.

The award ceremony came following Xi's meeting with Ramaphosa during his state visit to South Africa, where he will also attend the 15th BRICS Summit and co-chair with Ramaphosa the China-Africa Leaders' Dialogue.

The Order of South Africa is the highest decoration and the highest honor that South Africa awards to an important and friendly head of state.

Speaking at the ceremony, Xi said the China-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership has entered a "golden era," as political mutual trust between the two sides continues to deepen, and mutually beneficial and practical cooperation in various fields has yielded fruitful results.

The two countries have maintained close coordination and cooperation in international affairs, which has effectively promoted their respective development and revitalization, and made positive contributions to safeguarding the common interests of developing countries, he noted.

Xi reiterated that no matter how the international situation changes, the two sides will remain committed to deepening bilateral friendly cooperation.

Noting that he will treasure the honor, which symbolizes the friendship between the two peoples, Xi pledged to unswervingly push for the continuous development of China-South Africa relations. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The State Council Information Office: The People's Republic of China.

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Reserve Bank on BRICS joint Ministers of Finance and Central Bank Governors statement

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South African Government
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On 15 August 2023, the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) endorsed the BRICS Joint Ministers of Finance and Central Bank Governors Statement (Joint Finance Statement) under South Africa's Chairship of BRICS.

The Joint Finance Statement articulates consensus on South Africa's priorities during the 2023 BRICS Presidency, including the Global Economic Outlook and Multilateral Cooperation; BRICS Task Force on Public-Private Partnerships and Infrastructure; Mutual Cooperation on Customs and Tax; and BRICS Think Tank Network for Finance. The Joint Finance Statement further highlights the test run of the BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) as well as amendments to the Inter-Central Bank Agreement. The BRICS central banks collaborated on key topics such as sustainable finance, payments and information security, and will build on the work undertaken to strengthen their resilience and cooperation.

The statement issued today highlights (i) consensus on global economic and financial risks that need to be addressed by both advanced, emerging and developing countries; (ii) the successful adoption of a programmatic approach and guiding principles in infrastructure development and delivery in BRICS countries; (iii) progress on finalising text for the BRICS Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) of the Authorised Economic Operator Programme before the end of 2023; (iv) the endorsement of the operational guidelines for the BRICS Think Tank Network for Finance; (v) the sixth CRA Test-Run and amendments to the Inter-Central Bank Agreement to improve the operational readiness and credibility of the CRA mechanism; and (vi) the sharing of information on cyberattacks and experiences under the BRICS Payment Task Force on the implementation of selected elements of the G20 Cross-Border Payments Roadmap.

On the same day, a key partner of the BRICS grouping, the New Development Bank (NDB), successfully issued a ZAR bond in the South African bond market, becoming the highest-rated issuer in this market since 2015. The proceeds will be used to fund infrastructure and sustainable development projects in South Africa. The NDB is seeking to increase its presence in the local capital markets of its member countries to fund its robust portfolio of local currency loans.

South Africa would like to express its heartfelt appreciation for the support received from the BRICS member countries during its tenure as Chair and would encourage that the same spirit be carried forward to the next Chair in 2024.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

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Chinese President Xi calls on China, South Africa to strengthen four partnerships in golden era

Location: News

The State Council Information Office: The People's Republic of China
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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on China and South Africa to strengthen their partnerships in four dimensions during his state visit to the African nation.

Xi made the remarks during his meeting with his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa, here in the country's administrative capital.

Ahead of his arrival, Xi said in his signed article published in South African media that the blossoming China-South Africa relationship "has entered a 'golden era,' enjoying broad prospects and a promising future."

While meeting with Ramaphosa, the Chinese leader called on both sides to be strategic partners of high-level mutual trust, adding that "camaraderie and brotherhood" are the true quality of bilateral ties.

The two sides should strengthen exchanges and cooperation between their legislatures, political parties, militaries and localities, and continue to support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, said Xi.

The Chinese side is willing to strengthen inter-party exchanges and training cooperation with South Africa, and help the African National Congress (ANC) with building the African Leadership Institute, he added.

China and South Africa, said Xi, should be development partners for common progress.

He described mutual benefit and win-win results as the hallmark of China-South Africa cooperation, saying that the two sides should focus on advancing the Belt and Road Initiative, implementing the nine programs on China-Africa cooperation, as well as the 10-Year Strategic Programme on Cooperation between the two countries, consolidating cooperation in areas of strength and fostering new growth points for cooperation.

Over the years, bilateral ties have experienced what Xi described as "leapfrog development," from a partnership to a strategic partnership, and then to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Official statistics showed that bilateral trade in 2022 reached 56.74 billion U.S. dollars, accounting for 20.1 percent of China-Africa trade. And in the first half of the year, bilateral trade topped 28.25 billion dollars, up 11.7 percent year-on-year.

China has remained South Africa's largest trading partner for 14 consecutive years, while South Africa has been China's biggest trading partner in Africa for 13 years in a row.

Meanwhile, South Africa has been one of the African countries with the largest stock of Chinese investment, which has risen to 10 billion dollars. More than 200 Chinese companies in South Africa have created over 400,000 local jobs and South African companies are also racing to invest in the Chinese market to seize its abundant business opportunities.

Notably, South Africa was the first African country to join the Belt and Road cooperation. The pie of bilateral cooperation is getting bigger as South Africa's wines, rooibos tea, and aloe vera gels are trending in the Chinese market while automobiles and home appliances with Chinese brands gain increasing popularity among South African households.

And in a joint statement between the two countries issued on Tuesday after the meeting of the two presidents, both sides will consider working towards bilateral cooperation and synergy within the Belt and Road Initiative and the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan frameworks.

Both sides also pledged to continue to seek the strengthening of cooperation in key areas such as infrastructure and logistics, trade and investment, manufacturing, agro-processing, energy and resources, the financial sector, the digital economy, science and technology, and green development, according to the statement.

During the talks, Xi said China will expand imports of South African products and encourage more Chinese enterprises to invest in South Africa.

Noting that poverty reduction, agricultural development programs and rural revitalization are important components of Chinese modernization, he said Beijing is willing to strengthen experience exchange with South Africa and help the country carry out the poverty reduction demonstration village project.

Xi also elaborated on the necessity for the two countries to be friendly partners of deep mutual understanding and goodwill, saying that closer people-to-people bonds can best testify to the friendship between the two countries.

China is ready to make good use of such mechanisms as the China-South Africa vocational education alliance to strengthen vocational education of the two countries, promote exchanges and cooperation in youth employment, and help South Africa train more talents urgently needed for economic and social development, he said.

The two sides should strengthen tourism cooperation, and support scientific research institutions and enterprises to step up technological cooperation and joint research, so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples, Xi added.

South Africa in the joint statement further welcomed the identification of South Africa amongst the top 20 countries for group tourism promotion by Chinese tourists. The African country supports the increase in the frequency of direct flights between South Africa and China.

The fourth partnership the Chinese leader called on the two sides to enhance concerns global peace and stability.

This year's BRICS summit comes at a time when the world is facing rising uncertainties and accelerating changes unseen in a century.

Xi urged China and South Africa to be global partners that uphold justice, saying that independence is a principle both sides adhere to.

The Chinese side, Xi said, supports South Africa in playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs, and stands ready to work with South Africa and other developing countries to implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative.

He also said that Beijing is also ready to join the developing world in practicing true multilateralism, increasing the representation and voice of the Global South countries in global governance, and strengthening collaboration on issues such as climate change, food security and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, so as to safeguard the common interests and development space of developing countries, Xi added.

China and Africa, in the eyes of Xi, have always belonged to a community with a shared future. He told Ramaphosa that in a world which is undergoing transformation and turbulence, both sides need more than ever stronger solidarity and cooperation.

And in their joint statement, the two sides reiterated their resolve to further strengthen cooperation in terms of African affairs and to support the African Union in resolving African conflicts peacefully.

China expressed in the document its support for the efforts of African countries and regional organizations under the auspices of the African Union (AU) to provide African solutions to African problems, including to support the AU's early accession to membership of the Group of 20.

Ramaphosa described China as a sincere brother, friend and partner of his country, saying that China has provided valuable support to South Africa in its struggle for national independence and liberation as well as its national development. He also mentioned China's timely support for his country during the COVID pandemic.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 25 years ago, South Africa has firmly adhered to the one-China principle, he said, adding that both nations share the same or similar positions on many major international affairs.

Ramaphosa also said that in today's world that is facing multiple severe and complex challenges, South Africa and other Global South countries hope to strengthen unity and cooperation with China, so as to better meet challenges together, and push for a more equal, just and rational international order.

In South Africa, Xi will also attend the BRICS summit scheduled from Tuesday to Thursday, and co-chair with Ramaphosa the China-Africa Leaders' Dialogue on the sidelines of the summit. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The State Council Information Office: The People's Republic of China.

Read moreChinese President Xi calls on China, South Africa to strengthen four partnerships in golden era

Chinese President Xi says China – South Africa ties surpass bilateral scope

Location: News

The State Council Information Office: The People's Republic of China
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Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Tuesday that China-South Africa ties have gone beyond the bilateral scope and carried global sway.

Xi made the remarks when jointly meeting the press on Tuesday noon with his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa, after their talks.

Xi said he was delighted to accept the invitation of President Ramaphosa to pay a state visit again to South Africa, the beautiful "rainbow nation," adding that this is his fourth state visit to South Africa as the Chinese president.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of China-South Africa diplomatic ties, Xi said, noting that during the past 25 years, China-South Africa ties have achieved leapfrog development, with strategic mutual trust reaching a new height, cooperation in various fields moving forward in a comprehensive manner, and multilateral coordination becoming even closer.

Currently, the Communist Party of China is uniting and leading the Chinese people to push forward the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts with Chinese modernization, and South Africa is actively and independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions as well, Xi said, adding China-South Africa relationship faces new development opportunities.

Recalling the fruitful meeting he just held with Ramaphosa, Xi said they exchanged views on the development of bilateral ties in the new era as well as the international and regional issues of common concern, reaching important consensus.

They also witnessed the signing of a series of important bilateral cooperation documents, he said, expressing full confidence on the future prospects of friendly cooperative relations between the two countries.

Xi said he and Ramaphosa agreed that China and South Africa should be strategic partners with high mutual trust, urging the two sides to keep the good momentum of high-level exchanges, strengthen communication and cooperation in various fields, continue to deepen political mutual trust, enhance communication in the experience of state governance, and continue to support each other on issues of core interests and major concern.

They agreed that the mutually beneficial and pragmatic cooperation between China and South Africa has achieved fruitful results, and both sides should be development partners for common progress, he noted.

Xi said the two sides need to strengthen the alignment of development strategies, implement the nine programs put forward at the China-Africa Cooperation Forum and the 10 Years Strategic Programme on Cooperation between China and South Africa (2020-2029), solidify the cooperation in areas of strength, and foster new growth points for cooperation.

China is ready to import more quality products from South Africa and will continue to encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in South Africa, he noted, adding that the two sides will deepen bilateral cooperation in such areas as electric power, new energy as well as scientific and technological innovation.

Both sides highly value the empathy between the two peoples, and pledge to be friendly partners with mutual understanding and affection, Xi said, adding that the two countries must insist on putting people at the center of their cooperation, and let the cooperative results better benefit their people.

The Chinese side supports the South African government's efforts in strengthening vocational education and promoting youth employment, Xi noted, adding that both sides agreed to enhance exchanges and cooperation in areas such as education, science and technology, culture and tourism.

Xi said the two leaders agreed that as major developing countries and emerging economies with important influence, China and South Africa need to be global partners in safeguarding justice.

He urged the two sides to strengthen strategic coordination, practice true multilateralism and work to increase the representation and voice of the Global South countries in global governance.

China firmly supports African integration, backs the African Union to make substantial progress this year in joining the Group of 20, and encourages South Africa to play a bigger role in international and regional affairs.

Noting that the BRICS summit is about to open, Xi pointed out that under the current circumstance, this summit bears great significance for BRICS countries to solidify unity and cooperation, and promote the BRICS cooperative mechanism to develop and grow further.

As the rotating chair of BRICS, South Africa has made great preparation for the summit, which is highly appreciated by the Chinese side, Xi said, stressing that with the joint efforts of relevant parties, this year's BRICS summit is bound to be successful.

Xi said that he will co-chair with Ramaphosa the China-Africa Leaders' Dialogue on Thursday, which is the first face-to-face group meeting between Chinese and African leaders since the COVID-19 pandemic, expressing his expectation to draw a new blueprint for China-Africa unity and cooperation with other African leaders, and inject fresh and strong vitality into the development of the China-Africa comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

For his part, Ramaphosa said he is delighted to receive Xi to pay his fourth state visit to South Africa at the time of the 25th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties.

The South African people are sincerely grateful to the Chinese government and the people for their valuable support to South Africa's anti-apartheid movement and national development, as well as the large amount of medical supplies assistance to South Africa in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, he added.

Ramaphosa said he reiterated with Xi that the two countries will continue to firmly support each other on issues of core interests and major concern.

The two leaders agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, further expand the mutually beneficial cooperation in such areas as infrastructure, tourism, education and digital economy, and enhance international coordination on major international and regional affairs.

Ramaphosa thanked the Chinese side for its committed support to South Africa in successfully holding the 15th BRICS Summit, saying that he looks forward to working with Xi and other BRICS leaders to increase the voice of BRICS and the Global South countries in global governance, and promote the construction of a more just and rational international order.

He also expressed his expectation to co-chair the China-Africa Leaders' Dialogue with Xi, and to discuss the deepening of Africa-China cooperation, which, the South African president believes, will definitely boost Africa's industrialization and integration processes, and help the Global South countries to achieve common development and prosperity. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The State Council Information Office: The People's Republic of China.

Read moreChinese President Xi says China – South Africa ties surpass bilateral scope

SA and China strengthen political, trade relations

Location: News

SA and China strengthen political, trade relations

South Africa and the People’s Republic of China have reaffirmed political support for each other’s core interests during a State Visit at the Union Buildings in Tshwane. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping on Tuesday.

Delivering his remarks during a media briefing, President Ramaphosa said South Africa was honoured to receive President Xi on his fourth State Visit to South Africa ahead of the 15th BRICS Summit which both leaders look forward to.  

President Xi’s visit coincides with 25 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China, while historic ties date back to the Bandung conference of 1955. 

“During this State Visit, South Africa and China have reaffirmed political support for each other’s core interests. 

“We also agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure development, energy, tourism, education and training, and digital technologies. President Xi and I look forward to the upcoming BRICS Summit, and have agreed that BRICS must play an expanded role in global affairs,” said President Ramaphosa. 

The President highlighted that China is South Africa’s largest trading partner and South Africa is China’s biggest trading partner in Africa.

The two leaders discussed the need to narrow the trade deficit between South Africa and China, and that one of the ways to do this is by ensuring greater market access for value-added South African export goods into the Chinese market.

On multilateral cooperation, the two leaders agreed to consult closely on issues of common concern, including in the context of BRICS, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the G77 plus China, and the G20.

“We have discussed areas of synergy in line with the call by South Africa and other African countries for the reform of institutions of global governance, notably the United Nations Security Council. We agree that the interests of the Global South must be fairly represented on all multilateral fora,” he said. 

Russia-Ukraine conflict

The Heads of State further discussed the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and its significant impact on developing economies in Africa and elsewhere. 

“We both agreed on the importance of dialogue and negotiation between the two sides. As South Africa, we are encouraged that President Xi has welcomed the peace mission to Russia and Ukraine initiated by African leaders.

Friendship

President Ramaphosa, along with President Xi will be co-chairing a China-Africa Leaders’ Roundtable on the sidelines of the State Visit.

The purpose of the roundtable is to further deepen cooperation between China and the African continent on the development, industrialisation and integration of African economies.

President Ramaphosa said they are gratified that the friendship between the People’s Republic of China and South Africa has endured. 

“The friendship that exists between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China is living proof of what is set out in the Freedom Charter, which is the forerunner of the South African Constitution, which declared that: “There shall be Peace and Friendship.”

“We look forward to a new era of even stronger ties, underpinned by our commitment to achieving common prosperity for our respective peoples and the Global South in general,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 15:03

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President Ramaphosa calls for investment in Africa

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls for investment in Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on the business community to invest in the continent and identify solutions to the rapid economic, technological and social changes underway.

Addressing the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, during the BRICS Business Forum Leaders' Dialogue, the President said these changes create new risks for employment, equality and poverty in many BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) countries.

“From a South African perspective, there is massive untapped potential for investment in our country and on the African continent. Africa is a continent of great opportunity in the industrialisation process in a variety of sectors.

“Africa is a continent rich in the critical minerals that will drive business success in the 21st Century.  The continent has resources of lithium, vanadium, cobalt, platinum, palladium, nickel, copper, rare earth minerals, rhodium and many others," the President said.

He emphasised that African countries made it clear that the investors of choice are those who will process the resources here, close to source.

"We are developing stronger regional value-chains that will connect a number of African countries, providing investors with diversity, strength and resilience,” President Ramaphosa said.

Taking place under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism,” the summit is being attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China, as well as South Africa, as the host.

The President said the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will require a massive investment in infrastructure.

AfCFTA intends to create a single market for goods, services, facilitated by movement of persons in order to deepen the economic integration of the African continent.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area creates a single market that is expected to grow to 1.7 billion people and nearly $7 trillion in consumer and business spending by 2030. We need to mobilise the substantial financing needed to build the roads, ports, rail, energy and telecommunications networks that will enable industrialisation and trade.

“Growth in African economies will be driven in the main by small and medium enterprises. This requires focused and effective support to these businesses. It is important that specific financing be directed to women-owned businesses so that they can harness the benefits of the continental free trade area,” the President said.

He said the investment in skills development is growing as Africa has a young, digitally connected and urbanising population, which provides a stable workforce for companies in future.

“These factors all position Africa as the next frontier of productivity and growth. BRICS countries have an opportunity to contribute to and participate in Africa’s growth story. This can be achieved through greater cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, new energy and the digital economy.

“South Africa has an important position in this growing African market, facilitated by the African Continental Free Trade Area and other free trade agreements. South Africa's industrial strength, our mineral endowments and our large market opportunities provide a compelling value-proposition for companies wanting to establish their businesses here,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said South Africa has significant industrial capacity, with Africa’s most advanced industrial innovation and fabrication base.

“Firms that have invested here recognise that South Africa has deep local capital markets and strong financial systems. We have a diverse and sophisticated economy. South Africa possesses world-class infrastructure, skills, abundant natural resources, industrial clusters and a host of incentives to support investment.

“Many investment and partnership opportunities exist in renewable energy, infrastructure, aquaculture, information and communications technology (ICT), automotives, pharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing, among others,” the President said.

He explained that the BRICS group of countries exists not only to strengthen government-to-government relations, but also to forge stronger ties between the peoples of the five nations.

“It is for this reason that several bodies have been established to enable cooperation across society. The BRICS Business Council is a vital and vibrant platform for strengthening economic ties between our respective countries and in forging common perspectives on inclusive economic growth and development.

“The changes that have taken place in BRICS economies over the past decade have done much to transform the shape of the global economy. Together, the BRICS countries make up a quarter of the global economy, they account for a fifth of global trade and are home to more than 40 percent of the world’s population,” the President said.

As BRICS countries celebrate its 15th anniversary, trade between BRICS countries totalled some $162 billion last year.

“Foreign investment has played an important role in the growth of BRICS economies. Total annual foreign direct investment into BRICS countries is four times greater than it was 20 years ago,” the President said.

With the establishment of the New Development Bank by BRICS countries in 2015, the President said its formation has demonstrated its ability to mobilise resources for infrastructure and sustainable development in emerging economies without conditionalities.

“BRICS economies have emerged as powerful engines of global growth. Yet the rapid economic, technological and social changes underway create new risks for employment, equality and poverty in many BRICS countries. We therefore call on the business community to join hands with us to identify solutions to these and other challenges affecting our respective economies,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 18:42

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa calls for investment in Africa

Call to accelerate implementation of AfCFTA

Location: News

Call to accelerate implementation of AfCFTA

BRICS Business Council Chairperson, Patrice Motsepe, has emphasised the importance of accelerating the implementation and advancement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The AfCFTA intends to create a single market for goods and services, facilitated by movement of persons in order to deepen the economic integration of the African continent. The single market is expected to grow to 1.7 billion people and nearly $7 trillion in consumer and business spending by 2030.

Addressing the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, Motsepe called for a sense of urgency to make sure that trade barriers - both tariff and non-tariff - are significantly diminished and eliminated.

“South African companies are the largest trading partners on the African continent. They are world class with many of them being as good as the best in the world.

“The key issue is that the governments have to increase their partnerships with the private sector and these discussions between the private sector and governments must increase significantly.

“Part of these discussions is for the private sector to indicate to government what impediment and barriers are there to the free trade of goods and services on the Africa continent,” Motsepe said on Tuesday.

Taking place under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism,” the summit is being attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China, as well as South Africa, as the host.

Motsepe stressed that the future of African business depends on its capacity and ability to prove to the rest of the world that it can conduct partnerships, trade, investments as well as the ability to have business relationships that are mutually beneficial.

“The key issue for us is that we have to consistently produce results and indicate that the standards of living of our people are improving because at the heart of these trade ties is the poor, the unemployed and the marginalised,” he said.

Motsepe expressed confidence in the continent’s ability to grow its economies.

“We have a clear understanding of the challenges that confront us but we are equally confident based on the facts that the time for Africa has come. We will do well because seven of the fastest growing economies in the world are on the African continent.

“The amount of intra African trade is increasing significantly and the partnership with BRICS countries is very important and the relationships of doing business with the rest of the world is also important,” he said.

In an effort for BRICS countries to have greater access to markets, Motsepe called for the fast tracking of priority visas for entrepreneurs who are looking for opportunities.

“We understand that there are legitimate concerns about making sure that governments maintain their sovereign control of who comes and who goes out. We agree with that and support it as well but these are some of the low hanging fruits [that can be addressed].

“We can immediately give preferential access to businessman from BRICS countries. Give them visas, allow them to come and look at opportunities in South Africa as well as on the continent. What we spoke about was reciprocity,” he said.

Motsepe said BRICS has enormous potential and intends to significantly increase trade, investment and partnership relationships between South Africa, Africa and the BRICS countries.

Last year, trade between BRICS countries totalled some $162 billion.

“The potential is enormous but again the sense of urgency is what we need to translate the good ideas that we have; these big plans into effective, legislative policy instruments that allows for effective free flow of goods and services. When we started, we wanted to increase the trade between the African continent and BRICS countries.

“The commitment and the will is there. A market is an opportunity until you invest and sometimes your investment takes five to seven years before you realise value. There is opportunities in terms of what we can do, the magnitude of how we can grow and the magnitude of how we can grow the trade investment and business ties between South Africa, Africa and BRICS countries,” Motsepe said.

With South Africa’s history with the BRICS countries, which emanates during the years of the country’s fight for democracy, Motsepe said South Africa is building on those partnerships and they are important.

“We are building on that historical support that they have given to initiatives and the struggle towards democracy. We are using the history that we have with them to build very strong, beneficial business, investment ties and economic growth.

“This BRICS partnership has to translate into assessable, quantifiable investment and trade ties and it is doing that. That partnership has resulted in benefits but in relation to where we should be, there is still a long way to go," he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 19:00

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Russia willing to cooperate in developing Africa

Location: News

Russia willing to cooperate in developing Africa

Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country is willing to cooperate in the development of the African continent.

“Russia is part of the five most economically powerful countries in the world despite pessimistic outlooks from Western experts,” he said.

Putin, who participated in the 15th BRICS Summit virtually, said his country has had more than 6% growth and an increase in its economy over a three-year basis.

“There is volatility in the financial, energy and other markets, and that state and private debts are rising. Russia remains and will be a reliable food supplier to Africa,” Putin said.

Putin called on the BRICS Summit partners to cooperate on equal terms and also offer an update on his offer of free grain for African countries.

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently visited Russia, where he reiterated South Africa’s stance that the conflict between Russia and the Ukraine must be resolved through negotiation and peaceful means.

“As a country, we are committed to the articles of the United Nations Charter, including the principle that all members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means. We support the principle that members should refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of other States.

“Our position seeks to contribute to the creation of conditions that make the achievement of a durable resolution of the conflict possible. The reality is that the Russia-Ukraine conflict – and the tensions that underlie it – will not be resolved through military means. It needs to be resolved politically,” President Ramaphosa had said in one of his weekly newsletters, earlier this year. 

China to forge stronger BRICS partnerships

Presenting the remarks of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Business Forum Leaders' Dialogue, Chinese Minister Wang Wentao said whatever resistance there may be, BRICS - a positive and stable force for good will continue to grow.

“We will forge stronger BRICS strategic partnerships, expand a BRICS plus model, actively advance membership expansion, deepen solidarity and co-operation with other emerging markets and developing countries, promote global multi polarity and greater democracy in international relations and help make the international order more just and equitable,” he said.

The BRICS Business Leaders' Forum is one of the key events organised by the BRICS Business Council, traditionally taking place on the eve of the BRICS Summit. This year it is convened under the theme: “Making Accelerated Growth and Sustainable Development a Reality".  

South Africa and China enjoy vibrant economic relations. Relations between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China are governed by a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), whose programme of action is set out in a Ten-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020–2029).

The relations between South Africa and China over the last quarter of a century are founded on South Africa’s commitment to the One China Policy.

China has been a valued friend and developmental partner of South Africa throughout the course of rebuilding the country after apartheid.

During a State Visit earlier in the day, South Africa and China reaffirmed political support for each other’s core interests.

Chinese President Xi pledged his support to South Africa’s energy challenges.

This included the donation of emergency power equipment worth R167 million and availing a grant of approximately R500 million as development assistance.

“Energy cooperation with China is a recent development that we look to deepen, particularly in line with our respective commitments to low-carbon, climate-resilient development,” President Ramaphosa said during the State Visit.

China is South Africa’s largest trading partner and South Africa is China’s biggest trading partner in Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 20:00

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Developing and BRICS economies acquire opportunity to forge recent paths

Location: News

Developing and BRICS economies have opportunity to forge new paths

Mutual cooperation and trust are the key pillars that will thrust the BRICS group of countries as well as the global south towards development and economic growth.

This is the sentiment shared by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi and the President of Brazil, Lula da Silva.

The two world leaders were addressing the BRICS Business Forum Leaders' Dialogue at the 15th BRICS Summit held in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Modi said the COVID-19 pandemic, which ravaged the global economy and destroyed livelihoods, brought into sharp focus the importance of “resilience and inclusive supply chains”.

“For this, mutual trust and transparency are extremely important. By bringing our strengths together, we can make significant contributions to the welfare of the world, especially the global south.

“In 2009, when the first BRICS summit was held, the world was just coming out of a massive financial crisis. At that time, BRICS emerged as a ray of hope for the global economy. In the present times also – amongst the COVID pandemic, tensions, disputes… [and] economic challenges – in such times, once again, the role of BRICS countries is important,” said Modi.

This as his Brazilian counterpart, President da Silva, concurred – adding that the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) countries and developing countries have an opportunity to forge the way forward in development.

“Since the first summit of heads of state and government, our share in the global economy has been increasing. We have surpassed the G7 already accounting for 32% of the world GDP [gross domestic product] in purchasing power parity and forecasting indicates that emerging and developing markets are the ones that will show the highest growth…in the coming years.

“BRICS has a unique chance of shaping the global development path. Together, our countries make up a third of the global economy. This relevance will grow with the admission of new full members and dialogue partners. Collaboration between the public and private sector is vital for harnessing this potential and achieving lasting results,” President da Silva said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 19:11

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President Tinubu very Passionate About Empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Says Vice President Shettima

Location: News

The State House, Abuja
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President Bola Tinubu is very passionate about empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) for the development of the nation's economy, says Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima. 

According to the Vice President, “It is a known fact that the empowerment of the MSMEs is key to empowering our youth and women towards contributing to the nation's economic development.” 

The Vice President stated this today when he spoke with journalists during his tour of exhibition stands at the BRICS Trade Fair.

Speaking further about the commitment of President Tinubu towards empowering the MSMEs, he said “ the President is a very compassionate leader and in the coming months, there will be changes in the fortunes of Nigeria.”

Explaining the economic impact of the growth of MSMEs on the economy, VP Shettima said “this will have positive impacts which will enable them to support their families and add value to the nation.”

The Vice President commended the organizer's of the trade fair which had about 180 exhibitors from various sectors of the economy. He stressed that the exhibitions will in the long run serve the purpose of galvanising investment and trade in the continent.

Vice President Shettima who took time to inspect Nigeria's exhibitions lauded the investments of Nigerians in South Africa. 

He said “I am quite impressed by the investment Nigerians are making in South Africa. This is the harbinger of greater things to come. I can say that Nigerians are active in digital economy, they are active in fashion, they are equally active in mining.

“I am quite glad that quite a number of our country men are doing well and are willing to partner with the home nation for the greater glory of the African continent.”

While praising Rose Bank, a Nigerian investment outfit in South Africa for the funding of a cassava project worth 40 billion Naira, the Vice President affirmed that “it is game a changer with the cassava value chain with its huge economic benefits. We hope that it will be reflected in other parts of the country.”

The Trade Fair is being organised by the BRIC South Africa & The SA BRICS Business Council (SABBC) in collaboration with the Department of Trade Industry and Competition, on the sidelines of the on-going 15th BRICS Summit.

The exhibition is expected to serves as a platform for showcasing products and services from the BRICS countries as well as business-to-business interaction aimed at increasing intra-BRICS trade and investments.

The Vice President was accompanied to the Trade Fair by Nigeria's High Commissioner to South Africa, Amb. Muhammad Haruna Manta, the Consul-General, Amb. Andrew Idi and other senior government officials.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The State House, Abuja.

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President Isaias Afwerki arrives in Johannesburg

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Ministry of Information, Eritrea
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On invitation of President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa, President Isaias Afwerki arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa, in early afternoon hours today to attend the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogues which will be convened as part of BRICS Summit on 24 August in Johannesburg.

Upon arrival at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, President Isaias was accorded warm welcome by Dr. Joe Phaahla, Minister of Health of South Africa along with other senior Government officials.

At the sideline of the summit, President Isaias will meet and hold talks with various Government and State leaders.

The presidential delegation includes Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and currently over 20 countries have formally applied to join the alliance.

The summit is expected to focus on among others sustainable development and inclusion of the global South in multilateral systems and a number of countries have been invited to attend.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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BRICS countries: A shared history and connected future

Location: News

BRICS countries: A shared history and connected future

The five BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) share a history and connectedness that can spearhead the group into the future.

This is according to Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel, who was speaking on the first day of the 15th BRICS Summit held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

“It is through trading, through travel and through dialogue that friendships and lasting relationships are formed. And it is remarkable how connected our people, our histories and our economies in BRICS are.

“We are connected by history, but not only by history. Today we look forward to matters relating to the future. Today’s event is held in this industrial heartland of the African continent. An economy with major industrial strengths in traditional sectors but also with technologies in the space and satellite economy, in the digital sector, in new green technologies and advanced manufacturing,” he said.

The Minister said the colonial period and, predating that, trade between the countries and the African continent, has forged ties that have bound the five countries through centuries.

“We have more than 2000 years of trading between Asia and Africa. More than 1000 years ago there was a people who lived in this, the southern part of Africa near banks of the Limpopo. They traded with the outside world with India, Arabia and China – selling ivory and gold, buying pottery from China and glass needs from Persia.

“Our histories converged as large land masses were colonised. Indian slave people were brought from the Malabar Coast to South Africa in the 1600s and 1700s and later in the 1800s, large numbers of Indian indentured labourers were brought to develop South Africa’s sugar industry,” he said.

Minister Patel added that even Russia and Brazil share common moments in history.

“The age of colonialism saw too the start of the industrial scale trans-Atlantic slave trade taking captured Africans across the waters in cramped ships and the modern state of Brazil emerged. And the spirit of Africa is alive in Brazillian culture, the warmth of its people, the music and the samba that had its origins in Angola and Congo.

“Russian history too contains connections. The great Russian writer Alexander Pushkin’s great-grandfather was an African. Abram Petrovich Gannibal, abducted from Cameroon, taken via Constantinople and eventually taken to Russia where he became a nobleman,” Patel said.

He highlighted that during the fight for liberation in South Africa, the BRICS partner countries opened their doors to South Africans fleeing persecution or preparing for the fight against the racist Apartheid government.

“During the struggle against Apartheid, many South Africans stayed in Russia, in China, in India as with many parts of the world, we received material assistance in the struggle for freedom in our land,” Patel said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 18:17

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SA charts energy growth path with China

Location: News

SA charts energy growth path with China

South Africa aims to enhance its energy collaboration with China, focusing on aligning the two countries' shared dedication to environmentally friendly, low-carbon and climate-resilient development.

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday hosted his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping, on a State Visit in Tshwane, as eminent world leaders converge in Johannesburg for the 15th BRICS Summit in Sandton, Gauteng. Collaboration across a range of fields took centre stage as the two leaders met.

President Ramaphosa extended his heartfelt gratitude to President Xi for China’s acts of generosity and solidarity towards South Africa.

 “South Africa deeply appreciates China’s support in addressing our current energy challenges. This includes the donation of emergency power equipment worth R167 million and availing a grant of approximately R500 million as development assistance.

“Energy cooperation with China is a recent development that we look to deepen, particularly in line with our respective commitments to low-carbon, climate-resilient development,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa said the relationship between the people of South Africa and China stretches back many decades, with the Chinese people supporting South Africa during its struggle for freedom and democracy.

China has been a valued friend and developmental partner of South Africa throughout the course of rebuilding South Africa from the "ruins of apartheid".

“I wish to make special mention of China’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic through the provision of personal protective equipment, vaccines and other essential items to South Africa and other African countries. This support extended to the cancellation of the debt of a number of Africa countries,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President told his counterpart that Chinese companies, encouraged by his government, responded with enthusiasm to SA’s investment drive, which has raised more than R1.5 trillion in investment commitments over the last five years.

Building on this firm foundation, President Ramaphosa said the two countries should continue to provide each other with mutual support.

Over the years, the relationship between South Africa and China has been steadily strengthened and has transformed into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, underpinned by 10-Year Strategic Programmes of Cooperation. 

China and South Africa share common goals of economic growth, development and common prosperity for the respective countries and for all countries of the Global South. 

“It is this common outlook that has enabled us to deepen our cooperation on several fronts. South Africa maintains high-level cooperation with China in several areas. These include, but are not limited to, international politics, trade, investment, infrastructure development, science, innovation and education,” President Ramaphosa said. 

With China being South Africa's largest global trading partner and South Africa being China's biggest trading partner in Africa, the bilateral trade has grown exponentially, from less than R1 billion in 1998 to over R614 billion in 2022. 

“As South Africa, we are inspired by China’s common prosperity strategy, and are encouraged that this includes improving the welfare and well-being of all countries of the Global South.

“We welcome the progress that has been made regarding various FOCAC-related infrastructural development projects in South Africa, such as small harbours development and the flagship uMzimvubu Water Development project,” President Ramaphosa said. 

He emphasised that South Africa is looking forward to hosting the 15th BRICS Summit, having taken over from China as Chair in 2022. 

“We thank China for its support in convening this summit. We share your view, President Xi, that BRICS has a vitally important role to play in the reform of global governance and in the promotion of multilateralism and cooperation throughout the world.

“South Africa and China have similar views on the expansion of BRICS membership and we look forward to the discussions we will have on this matter during the BRICS Leaders’ Retreat,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 15:05

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Call to support farmers

Location: News

Call to support farmers

BRICS countries have been challenged to take the lead and develop a system that can create a resilient farming community. 

The call was made during panel discussions focusing on agriculture, held on Tuesday at the Sandton Convention Centre.

The discussions were held at the BRICS (Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia) Business Forum, which looked at sustainable development in agriculture across BRICS nations and the promotion of trade and investment in the sector across the bloc of nations.

Emphasising the need for the creation of a reward system, the Indian chapter of the BRICS Business Council chair, Jai Shroff, said food security is a big issue, while climate change has a huge impact on farmers. 

“Soil is the biggest thing for government and we need to create a reward system for farmers to sustain agriculture. 

“If BRICS can take a lead, we can see a massive change that will really help improve soil and also create a revenue system,” he noted. 

He said leaders should also reward farmers for sustaining the environment. 

Bruno Ferla, who chairs the Brazil chapter of the BRICS Business Council, said his home country, which is currently one of the powerhouses of agriculture, managed to achieve this with technology to produce food.

Meanwhile, Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber, Wandile Sihlobo, noted a current change in temperature of certain chemicals and seeds, which are so critical for agricultural productivity. 

“BRICS countries have to take [a] particular view on how they think about that,” he said, adding that improving intra-trade is very important, especially for South Africa.

Agreement to export avocados to China

Meanwhile, Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, today signed an agreement with Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi for the export of agricultural products to China.

Didiza expressed excitement on the signing of the agreement with China.

“Gaining access to China is a vital step in driving an export led growth for the South African avocado, which is a commitment the government has made under the Agriculture and Agro-Processing Master Plan. 

“In recent years, the avocado industry has expanded by 4 750 hectares increasing the total hectares to over 18 000,” Didiza said.

Didiza added that China is likely to become one of the world’s major consumers of avocados and thus offers an immense opportunity to expand avocado production in South Africa.

The agreement comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a State Visit to South Africa. Xi is also attending the 15th BRICS Summit which is being held at the Sandton Convention Centre. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 15:55

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Next wave of global economic growth will advance from Africa

Location: News

Next wave of global economic growth will come from Africa

The next wave of global growth will emerge from Africa, as the continent rises as a bigger player in emerging markets. 

This is according to Busi Mabuza, who chairs the South Africa chapter of the BRICS Business Council.

Mabuza was speaking on Tuesday during a panel discussion on unlocking BRICS trade and investment opportunities.

She told delegates that intra-BRICS trade has grown by an average annual rate of 7% in the past 10 years.

“These are very compelling numbers. However, the success of the BRICS formation, especially in the past 10 years is that we have now created a model for the world that moves away from the extractive approach in terms of economic engagement towards a collaborative approach where we can all benefit,” she said. 

The BRICS grouping of major emerging economies – Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia (BRICS), is holding its summit in Johannesburg from 22-24 August 2023 under the Chairship of South Africa.

In addition, she said the continent still boasts abundant resources, including human capital, especially the youth, mineral resources and others. 

“The next wave of global growth will come from this continent,” she stressed. 

“It is important that we are sitting here today inviting our BRICS partners because we see that they accept and understand the multilateral approach where there’s mutual respect and all working for a win-win outcome.” 

Mabuza has called on the bloc partners to participate in the industrialisation of the African continent. 

“This is because this is where the world needs to see the next wave of global growth.”

She also stressed the importance of Africa-intra trade and tangible cooperation and coordination.

“We need to focus on the infrastructure. We need to trade with ourselves in the continent and get services from each other,” she said, adding that people-to-people interaction was also crucial. 

The chair also touched on policies such as visa agreements, which has the potential to unlock more opportunities.  

The BRICS Business Council is a platform that promotes and strengthens business, trade and investment ties among the business communities of the five countries.

It also fosters regular dialogue between the business communities of the nations and governments of BRICS countries to ensure greater economic, trade and investment ties.

Chair of Brazil’s BRICS Business Council, José Serrador Neto, has described the platform as a strong organisation that has identified intra-trade sector networks, promoted trade missions and displayed successful projects within the bloc.

“It’s important that when you see the BRICS Business Council work that you not only see bold free trade statements but we go into supply chains and identify specific opportunities for integration.”

Serrador Neto emphasised that the intra-BRICS trade includes Africa as a whole. 

He announced that they have recommended a connection between the bloc countries through the air to promote more trade and interconnectivity. 

Meanwhile, the Russian counterpart, Sergey Katyrin, said he hopes that trade between the bloc will reach 30%. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 14:07

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Patel reflects on global challenges as he welcomes BRICS delegates

Location: News

Patel reflects on global challenges as he welcomes BRICS delegates

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, has reflected on the issues facing global economies as he welcomed all delegates at the 15th BRICS Summit, which officially kicked off in Johannesburg on Tuesday morning. 

The Sandton Convention Centre has been a hive of activity as delegates from across the globe congregate to take part in the first in-person summit since the COVID-19 outbreak. 

“A special welcome to all of you to the province of Gauteng, the economic powerhouse of the African continent, where 35% of South Africa’s wealth is generated. This small but very productive province accounts for 5% of Africa’s GDP [Gross Domestic Product],” said Patel.

The BRICS grouping of major emerging economies – Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia - is holding their summit in Johannesburg from 22-24 August 2023 under the chairship of South Africa.

Patel told the room full of delegates that the world looks different from five years ago when the country hosted the 10th BRICS Summit in 2018. 

“Today, the world is more polarised, climate change is more pressing and the speed of technological innovation is rapidly increasing. These trends are in turn reshaping our economies and societies in more profound ways than more of us can project,” he said.

The Minister noted that change across the globe has created turmoil and tension. 

“As the world changes, we have seen a rise of unilateralism and a pushback on the global rule-based system.” 

Patel, however, believes that it cannot be business as usual for the private sector, governments and other role players. He has called on leaders to adapt to the “new normal” and often volatile, uncertain and complex world. 

“It’s in this context that the BRICS Business Council meets here today,” Patel said.

Towards a better future

Despite challenges, he said the council is optimistic about the future. 

The Minister reflected on some of the institutions that were built by the bloc, such as the New Development Bank, which drives investment and infrastructure, and supports economies and societies. 

Patel said the power of science, technology and innovation must be harnessed to solve some of the world’s problems, from developing lifesaving vaccines to green technologies that can decarbonise the energy mix. 

Other developments such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which has the potential to bring together a market of 1.3 billion people and provide a much-needed boost to African industrialisation, must be actively pursued.

“We’re no longer just a raw material supplier. Africa is taking its place in the world as an innovator and industrialiser -- the Africa of people, young people, rapidly urbanising, digitally connected and energetic Africa.

“We’re pushing back against the toxic legacy of 55 States divided by borders from a continent of 1.3 billion people united in our resolve, connected in a unified manner.” 

Meanwhile, Brazil’s Finance Minister, Fernando Haddad, said his country always strives to facilitate investment in the interest of his country. He described BRICS’ contribution as “enormous”. 

“In Brazil, we believe in multilateralism and cultural and social diversity, and that we equitably distribute the opportunities.” 

Haddad said it was important for BRICS to be unified.

India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, commended businesses for organising centres for them to discuss the BRICS economies. 

He said India, which grew its GDP grew by 7.2% last year, is one of the world’s fastest growing economies.  

Goyal said India is also transforming its infrastructure, and that it boasts more than 800 million internet users and an increase in online services.

In addition, the country is also growing its renewable energy sources. 

Goyal also reflected on the important partnership between the BRICS countries and the global south based on mutual respect. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 11:54

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Read morePatel reflects on global challenges as he welcomes BRICS delegates