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Durban celebrates Chinese New Year, enhancing ties with China

Mthembeni Vuma|Published

Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Durban welcomed guests to its annual Chinese New Year reception.

Image: SUPPLIED

The room was filled with joy and excitement as the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Durban, Li Zhigong, welcomed guests to its annual Chinese New Year reception, an event highlighting the deepening ties between China and South Africa.

The event brought together influential figures, including KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature Speaker Nontembeko Boyce, Deputy Speaker Mmabatho Tembe, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba, uMsunduzi Municipality Council Speaker Cllr Eunice Majola, former South African Ambassador to China, Siyabonga Cwele, and KZN's MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, Martin Meyer.

Cllr. Cyril Xaba, the Mayor of eThekwini Municipality.
Ms. Nontembeko Boyce, Speaker of the KZN Provincial Legislature.
Mr. Martin Meyer, MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure in KZN

In an opening address, Li Zhigong extended New Year greetings to all in attendance, reinforcing the spirit of unity and community within the Chinese diaspora in South Africa.

He noted that, with 2025 marking a significant milestone for China, the celebration also provided an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, which has driven notable economic and social development.

“Our GDP exceeded RMB 140 trillion, with per capita GDP reaching around USD 14,000, indicating growth of 5.0%,” said Li Zhigong.

The ceremony also underscored China’s commitment to multilateralism and enhanced cooperation with developing nations, highlighting initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has gained traction across the African continent.

In his address, the Consulate-General revealed that China’s decision to eliminate tariffs on 100% of products from 53 African countries, including South Africa, further illustrates the strengthening partnership.

He added that this collaboration was evident in discussions between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the G20 Leaders’ Summit, where key areas of mutual interest and development were addressed.

Li Zhigong emphasised that KwaZulu-Natal plays a crucial role in this flourishing bilateral relationship, with growing cooperation across sectors including education, culture and trade.

The event also highlighted previous delegations between South Africa and China, as well as initiatives such as the sister-city relationship between eThekwini and Xi’an. Meanwhile, the investment landscape continues to evolve, with Chinese companies undertaking major infrastructure projects such as the EB Cloete interchange bridge and the N3 upgrade.

According to the Consulate-General, these projects not only enhance infrastructure but also create opportunities for local employment and skills development.

Educational partnerships have similarly expanded, with increasing numbers of KwaZulu-Natal youth participating in vocational training programmes in China.

“Such initiatives ensure a steady transfer of skills that contribute positively to South Africa’s economic trajectory,” he noted.

The celebrations were further enriched by cultural exchanges, including performances by the Beijing Dance Academy and initiatives led by the local Chinese community, which promote a deeper understanding of Chinese culture within South African communities.

performances by the Beijing Dance Academy and initiatives led by the local Chinese community, which promote a deeper understanding of Chinese culture within South African communities
performances by the Beijing Dance Academy and initiatives led by the local Chinese community, which promote a deeper understanding of Chinese culture within South African communities
performances by the Beijing Dance Academy and initiatives led by the local Chinese community, which promote a deeper understanding of Chinese culture within South African communities

These interactions, he said, are a testament to the mutual respect and friendship between the two nations.

“Our achievements in fostering China–KwaZulu-Natal relations are a tribute to the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including the Provincial Legislature, local businesses and community members,” said Li Zhigong.

Looking ahead, he expressed hope for a year marked by perseverance, growth and strengthened friendships, in keeping with the spirit of the Year of the Horse, symbolising resilience and forward momentum.

DAILY NEWS