On September 22, 2023, the Chinese Consulate General in Johannesburg held a reception to warmly celebrate the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and dearly bid farewell to the outgoing Consul General Tang Zhongdong. Over 250 guests attended the event, including Cedric Frolick,the House Chairperson of Committees in the South African Parliament, 18 provincial leaders including the Premiers and Spokespersons of Gauteng and Free State, Mayors and Spokespersons of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni, Gauteng Provincial Committee leaders of various political parties, Consuls General of various countries in Johannesburg, local scholars and media members, representatives of Chinese-funded institutions in South Africa and South African Chinese. South African Broadcasting Corporation, Independent Online, Sowetan, The Star, People's Daily, Xinhua News Agency, China Media Group and many other South African and Chinese media participated and reported on the event.
In his speech, Consul General Tang recalled the great achievements made by the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China since the founding of the People's Republic of China 74 years ago, focusing on how China has, since the 20th National Congress of CPC, overcome the impact of the COVID pandemic, promoted steady economic development, continuously improved the level of opening up, and advanced the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization. Tang said that on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and South Africa, President Xi Jinping's state visit to South Africa has led to the continuous advancement of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. The important consensus reached by the two Heads of State has indicated the way forward for the future development of China-South Africa relations. The BRICS Summit hosted by South Africa in August was a complete success, with fruitful cooperation achievements in various sectors. The expansion of BRICS membership will assist the international order to develop in a more just and reasonable direction. Tang praised the South African government for always adhering to the "One China" principle. South Africa and China have always supported each other on issues of core interests, and jointly promoted progression in the international community.
Tang highly affirmed the positive contributions made by the Chinese in the consular district to China-South Africa relations and cooperation as well as local economic and social development.
Consul General Tang affectionately recalled his seven years of work experience in South Africa (nearly four years as Consul General) and thanked the consular district government, parliament, political parties, higher education institutions, media, South African Chinese associations and other sectors for their strong support for his work. Tang said that South Africa has become his "second home" and wished to reunite with his old friends in the Rainbow Country in the future.
Acting Premier Tasneem Motara said that Premier Lesufi regretted his absence due to his temporary business trip abroad and entrusted her to express his most sincere festive greetings and farewell wishes to Consul General Tang. Motara recalled the historical context of China's active support for the independence and development of African countries over the past 74 years, and emphasized the brotherly friendship between China and South Africa in progressing and developing together since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries 25 years ago. Motara shared her wonderful experience of accompanying Premier Lesufi to visit Chongqing, Zhejiang, Shanghai, Beijing and other places in June this year. She said that the visit was very successful and the delegation had a deeper understanding on the Chinese modernization. The Gauteng Province is committed to carrying out practical cooperation with China in various sectors to bring more benefits to the people of both sides.
Premier Dukwana said that he was honored to be invited to the National Day reception held by the Consulate General and was glad to meet South African and Chinese representatives from various sectors on the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and South Africa. The Communist Party of China has led the Chinese people to victory on all fronts in the fight against poverty, and the concept of common prosperity rooted deeply in the hearts of the people. China has vigorously promoted science and technological innovation, achieved “5G independence” and realized exciting scientific research achievements. The Chinese government and the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in South Africa care and support the development of South Africa, especially the Free State. Practical cooperation between China and South Africa in various sectors has created more opportunities for South Africa. Two weeks ago, he led a delegation to visit Jiangxi and Jiangsu provinces and the journey was fulfilling and unforgettable. The delegation reached a series of cooperation intentions with local governments, enterprises, scientific research institutions, etc. He believed that with the joint efforts of both sides, the relationship between the Free State and China will become even closer. He wished Consul General Tang all the best.
At the end of the reception, Consul General Tang Zhongdong and the guests of honor toasted to the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and praised China's great achievements of development and the fruitful results of China-South Africa relations. All participants immersed in the passionate aura of friendship, presented farewell wishes, discussed cooperation, and looked forward to the future.