On the 22nd of August 2023, President Xi Jinping of China and his South African counterpart, President Cyril Ramaphosa, convened in Pretoria, marking a significant step in the deepening ties between Beijing and Pretoria. As they met on the eve of the 15th BRICS Summit set to unfold in Johannesburg, President Xi Jinping heralded a “new historical starting point” for the relationship between China and South Africa. The camaraderie between the two leaders resonated through their discussions on various topics, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The curtain rises on the 15th BRICS Summit, held on the 22nd of August in Johannesburg. Attending are the heads of state from Brazil, India, and China. Notably absent is Russian President Vladimir Poutine, who, due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, will follow the proceedings via videoconference, represented by his Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov.
Before the summit’s commencement, President Xi Jinping was accorded a state visit, commencing with his arrival in Pretoria on the morning of August 22nd. The South African President welcomed his Chinese counterpart, capitalizing on the BRICS Summit’s presence to fortify bilateral relations with a significant trading partner.
The ceremonial welcome was replete with the splendor befitting a state visit—red carpets, a 21-gun salute, and the conferral of the Order of the National Order by President Ramaphosa.
Amidst this diplomatic choreography, the warmth of the relationship between the two leaders was palpable. President Cyril Ramaphosa eloquently dubbed his nation a “true friend” of China, underscoring the invaluable support that Beijing extended to the African National Congress during the tumultuous period of the anti-apartheid struggle.
The meeting between Presidents Xi and Ramaphosa set the tone for the upcoming BRICS Summit, amplifying the bonds of collaboration and shared goals that the member nations represent. As these two leaders exemplify a model of diplomatic engagement, the world watches with anticipation as the summit unfolds, certain that the alliance between China and South Africa stands as a testament to the enduring power of international cooperation.