South Africa Hails China as Strategic Ally During Pivotal G20 Summit

South Africa’s relationship with China received high praise at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg this past weekend, with senior government officials describing the partnership as one of the most aligned and dependable on the global stage.

Speaking to China Daily on the sidelines of the summit, Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the relationship between the two nations remains “an excellent bilateral partnership reflected in multilateral platforms.” He noted that China and South Africa consistently share common positions on major global issues, especially those central to South Africa’s G20 presidency.

“There is no doubt or ambiguity about the level of cooperation between China and South Africa,” Magwenya said, emphasising that the partnership continues to shape global dialogue on development, reform, and emerging market priorities.

Deputy Government Spokesperson William Baloyi echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of South Africa hosting the G20 Summit on behalf of both the African continent and the broader international community. He said many of the discussions, particularly around debt relief, economic recovery and critical minerals, carry deep relevance for Africa.

“When we talk about debt, debt relief affects mainly lower-income economies, including those in Africa,” Baloyi explained. “Africa is rich in minerals, yet several of its economies continue to face structural challenges. Hosting the G20 allowed these issues to be brought to the centre of global attention.”

Baloyi added that the summit provided a platform for Africa to assert its priorities within the global economic system, while also reinforcing partnerships with countries such as China that have shown long-standing commitment to African development.

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Finance, David Masondo, highlighted China’s continued investment in the country’s economic transition and industrial growth. He noted China’s contributions to South Africa’s decarbonisation efforts, as well as the active role of major Chinese financial institutions in supporting infrastructure development and enterprise growth.

“There is a lot of work we are doing with China,” Masondo said. “From financing energy transitions to supporting entrepreneurs across industries, Chinese partners complement the broader international investment community operating in South Africa.”

As South Africa looks ahead to advancing outcomes from its G20 presidency, officials say China will remain a key strategic ally—both in strengthening multilateral cooperation and driving inclusive growth across the African continent.