Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae Announces Distribution of Generators Donated by China to Schools, Hospitals, and Government Offices
Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae of the Free State has extended her congratulations to the People's Republic of China as the nation celebrates its 75th anniversary since its founding. Letsoha-Mathae led a Free State delegation at a reception in Johannesburg, hosted by Consul General Pan Qingjiang, in honor of China's National Day. Attendees included prominent figures like Free State MEC Jabu Mbalula, Gauteng Provincial Legislature Speaker Morakane Mosupyoe, Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero, and Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza.
The 75th anniversary marks the proclamation made by Mao Zedong on October 1, 1949, establishing the People's Republic of China. Speaking at the event, Letsoha-Mathae emphasized the strong and enduring partnership between South Africa and China, which has thrived since diplomatic ties were established in 1998. The premier highlighted the mutual respect and shared goals driving the partnership, particularly in addressing development challenges across South Africa and Africa as a whole.
Letsoha-Mathae expressed optimism about further cooperation, especially in tackling issues related to water and electricity in struggling municipalities, such as Maluti-a-Phofung, Mantsopa, Masilonyana, and Ngwathe. The premier revealed that the Free State had already benefited from China's generosity, receiving 11 electricity generators that will be distributed to schools, health facilities, and government buildings facing power shortages.
She also acknowledged China's role as one of South Africa's largest trading partners, with bilateral trade strengthening local industries and creating jobs. In addition to trade, Chinese investments have significantly contributed to the development of critical infrastructure, particularly in energy, transportation, and telecommunications sectors.
The premier further praised cultural exchanges between the two nations, including scholarships for South African students to study in China, which have fostered mutual understanding and deepened relationships. Letsoha-Mathae underscored the importance of these exchanges in building a foundation of trust and friendship essential for sustained collaboration.
In his keynote address, Consul General Pan Qingjiang reflected on China's remarkable achievements over the past 75 years, crediting the Communist Party of China for the nation's economic growth and long-term stability. He highlighted that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China's GDP reached $17.8 trillion in 2023, contributing over 30% to global growth. Pan also noted China's success in eradicating extreme poverty by 2020, achieving the UN's poverty reduction goals a decade ahead of schedule.
Letsoha-Mathae concluded by affirming the strength of the South Africa-China relationship, calling for continued cooperation to benefit not only the two nations but also the broader global community.
The 75th anniversary marks the proclamation made by Mao Zedong on October 1, 1949, establishing the People's Republic of China. Speaking at the event, Letsoha-Mathae emphasized the strong and enduring partnership between South Africa and China, which has thrived since diplomatic ties were established in 1998. The premier highlighted the mutual respect and shared goals driving the partnership, particularly in addressing development challenges across South Africa and Africa as a whole.
Letsoha-Mathae expressed optimism about further cooperation, especially in tackling issues related to water and electricity in struggling municipalities, such as Maluti-a-Phofung, Mantsopa, Masilonyana, and Ngwathe. The premier revealed that the Free State had already benefited from China's generosity, receiving 11 electricity generators that will be distributed to schools, health facilities, and government buildings facing power shortages.
She also acknowledged China's role as one of South Africa's largest trading partners, with bilateral trade strengthening local industries and creating jobs. In addition to trade, Chinese investments have significantly contributed to the development of critical infrastructure, particularly in energy, transportation, and telecommunications sectors.
The premier further praised cultural exchanges between the two nations, including scholarships for South African students to study in China, which have fostered mutual understanding and deepened relationships. Letsoha-Mathae underscored the importance of these exchanges in building a foundation of trust and friendship essential for sustained collaboration.
In his keynote address, Consul General Pan Qingjiang reflected on China's remarkable achievements over the past 75 years, crediting the Communist Party of China for the nation's economic growth and long-term stability. He highlighted that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China's GDP reached $17.8 trillion in 2023, contributing over 30% to global growth. Pan also noted China's success in eradicating extreme poverty by 2020, achieving the UN's poverty reduction goals a decade ahead of schedule.
Letsoha-Mathae concluded by affirming the strength of the South Africa-China relationship, calling for continued cooperation to benefit not only the two nations but also the broader global community.
