CHINA OPENS THE GATES: WHAT ZERO TARIFFS MEAN FOR AFRICA
China’s decision to remove tariffs on imports from almost every African country marks one of the most significant developments in modern Africa–China relations. At a time when the global economy is becoming increasingly fragmented by trade wars, sanctions, and protectionist policies, Beijing is positioning itself as a defender of open trade and deeper cooperation with […]
FROM POTENTIAL TO POWER: WHY SADC MUST TURN VISION INTO ACTION
Southern Africa stands at a defining moment in its history. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is a region blessed with strategic geography, abundant natural resources, and immense human potential. It is, in many ways, one of Africa’s most peaceful and underutilised regions. Yet despite these advantages, the region continues to underperform in areas where […]
SONA 2026: FROM PROMISES TO PERFORMANCE IN SOUTH AFRICA’S ECONOMY
The 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa outlines government’s priorities for economic growth, service delivery, infrastructure investment and the fight against crime. Constitutionally, SONA is not merely ceremonial. It is a foundational mechanism through which Parliament is enabled to exercise oversight and set the national policy agenda. In this […]
DEPUTY PRESIDENT MASHATILE HELD A COURTESY MEETING WITH PREMIER LI QIANG OF CHINA
This afternoon His Excellency, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Paul Mashatile had a Courtesy Meeting with Premier LI Qiang of the People’s Republic of China at the NH Hotel, Sandton. The meeting provided an opportunity to advance South Africa’s strategic objectives in trade, investment, industrialisation, multilateral cooperation and governance, while […]
KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY DEPUTY PRESIDENT MASHATILE DURING LAUNCH OF THE TRANSFORMATION FUND
“It is always a privilege to be invited to gatherings of this nature, and I remain keen on engaging in dialogues that can advance our nation’s progress. This is because conversations regarding economic matters are crucial for fostering inclusive and sustainable development and improving participation in decision-making processes. They facilitate the equilibrium of economic development […]
OPENING OF THE AZIZ PAHAD INAUGURAL ANNUAL PEACE, SECURITY AND HUMAN RIGHTS DIALOGUE
Speech Delivered by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, under the theme: Constitutionalism as the Foundation of Nation Building and Social Cohesion: A Reflection of 30 Years of Freedom, Equity and Justice in a Post Apartheid South Africa. “As we gather here today and this moment in history, we must guard against the […]