Interview: China an inspiration, partner for development, says South Africa's Gauteng Province premier

by Xinhua writer Bai Ge

JOHANNESBURG, June 23 (Xinhua) -- China's rapid development and technological innovation offer both inspiration and opportunities for international cooperation, said Panyaza Lesufi, premier of South Africa's Gauteng Province.

Lesufi led a delegation to attend the fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) in central China's Hunan Province from June 10 to 14. Gauteng, home to the metropolitan municipalities of Johannesburg and Pretoria, is South Africa's most populous province and economic heartland, contributing substantially to the country's economy and development.

"China is an inspiration, a motivation, and an affirmation that if you put your thoughts together, you can achieve so much," Lesufi said in a recent interview with Xinhua following his return.

During his trip, Lesufi visited Hunan Province and south China's Shenzhen Municipality, where he witnessed progress in key areas of China's modernization.

"I was taken aback by how rapidly the country is advancing. China's development is amazing, and I hope to align our province as closely as possible to China's trajectory," said Lesufi.

The premier noted that he was impressed by China's technological advancements and smart city governance.

"In China, key public areas are equipped with CCTV (closed-circuit television) cameras, all centrally coordinated through a powerful operation center. Given the serious crime challenges in our province, this is an effective and inspiring model for us to keep our people safe," said Lesufi.

He also highlighted China's high-speed rail system as a key enabler of economic development. He praised the Asian country's innovative financing models, which underpin infrastructure and technological progress, as "exceptional and globally distinctive."

As the world faces rising unilateralism and protectionism, Lesufi described the CAETE as a true partnership that fosters cooperation between Africa and China, having "opened markets for all."

During the event, some 25 Gauteng-based small businesses showcased their local products, which piqued the interest of Chinese buyers. "I believe the CAETE and the opportunities it has created will build a better Gauteng," he said.

During his stay in Hunan, Gauteng signed a twinning agreement with Hunan Province, sealing cooperation in fields such as clean energy, smart cities, and modern agriculture.

Lesufi described the partnership as "groundbreaking" and full of potential. "We want to grow our agricultural processing capacity, and Hunan is offering the technology in harvesting and packaging to help us bring our fruits and vegetables to the global market faster," he said.

The premier emphasized the value of Chinese expertise in energy innovation, especially as Gauteng grapples with electricity and energy challenges. He noted that the two sides discussed cooperation in clean energy, such as battery storage and solar power, to support the green transition.

"The relationship between South Africa and China is historical and essential," Lesufi said, adding that province-to-province relationships play a key role in building stronger national partnerships. ■