Celebrating Sino-South African ties: KZN's role in economic collaboration

DURING the celebrations marking the National Day of the 76th Republic of China and the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival, Li Zhigong, the Chinese Consulate General in Durban, highlighted KwaZulu-Natal’s important role as an economic and cultural hub in South Africa and as an essential foundation for Sino-South African cooperation.

- SIPHO JACK

The event was held at the Musgrave Hotel, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration among attendees. In his address, Zhigong stated, “In recent years, the collaboration between KwaZulu-Natal and China has steadily expanded across many sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and education.”

He emphasised the positive impact of various projects undertaken by Chinese companies within the province, citing the ongoing progress of the EB Cloete Interchange and the N3 highway upgrade as exemplars of successful partnerships.

Moreover, the advancement of the NPC Cement Plant, through technological upgrades, has significantly contributed to local economic growth and improved livelihoods in the area. Demonstrating China's commitment to youth development, Zhigong noted that assistance in vocational skills training has increasingly benefited young people in KwaZulu-Natal, positioning them for better opportunities in a competitive job market.