Deputy Minister of Social Development and President of Al Jama-ah, Hon. Ganief Hendricks, attended the official celebration of the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China in Pretoria on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.
The reception brought together representatives from government, the diplomatic community, business and wider South African society to mark the occasion and recognise the longstanding relationship between South Africa and China.
For Al Jama-ah, engagement with international partners forms part of its broader commitment to dialogue, cooperation and South Africa’s role within the Global South.
The occasion provided an opportunity for Deputy Minister Hendricks to engage with diplomatic representatives and other stakeholders as South Africa and China continue to explore areas of cooperation, including trade, development, investment and people-to-people relations.
China has been South Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, according to remarks delivered by China’s Consul General in Cape Town earlier this month, while cooperation between the two countries continues across areas including energy, manufacturing, agriculture, technology and cultural exchange.
Building relationships, strengthening cooperation and engaging beyond our borders are all part of serving South Africa and its people.
