China’s Consul General in Johannesburg, Mr Pan Qingjiang, joined senior South African government officials on Monday, 24 November 2025, for the launch of the CJITG International Industrial Cooperation & Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Park.

The event drew leaders from business, government and civil society from both countries, underscoring the growing cooperation between South Africa and China in industrial development and youth empowerment.

Among the guests were Gauteng MEC for Education, Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Mr Matome Chiloane, and Ms Gadija Brown, Economic Special Advisor to the Deputy President.

Speaking at the ceremony, Consul General Pan highlighted the outcomes of the recently concluded G20 Summit, noting the strong commitment expressed by global leaders to multilateralism and collective action on shared challenges. He said the summit also carried a “distinctive African imprint”, reflecting the continent’s rising voice on the international stage.

Pan emphasised that under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Cyril Ramaphosa, China and South Africa continue to strengthen their all-round strategic cooperative partnership. He said China is ready to align development strategies with South Africa and share opportunities created by China’s ongoing modernisation.

The Consul General expressed hope that the new innovation and entrepreneurship park—known as Cpark—will become a key platform for youth-led innovation, industry collaboration and cultural exchange. He said the initiative has the potential to bring “tangible benefits to the people of both countries” by empowering young innovators and deepening industrial links.

The launch marks another step in expanding bilateral cooperation in technology, skills development and economic growth.