Tokyo: Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with Japan during a working visit marking 115 years of relations between the two nations. Speaking at United Nations University, the Deputy President underscored South Africa’s ongoing collaboration with Japan, highlighting the Strategic Cooperation Partnership established in 2010. “This year, the two countries celebrate a significant milestone of 115 years of relations,” he said.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mashatile praised Japan’s significant investment in South Africa, noting that 273 firms are currently operating in the country, sustaining over 200,000 local jobs. “These ties have particularly flourished in the fields of trade and investment, science and technology, and education and skills development assistance,” he added.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Deputy President held fruitful engagements with the Prime Minister and the Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan. He described these meetings as a sign of the significant people and trade relations between the two sister countries. Beyond economic ties, cultural exchanges were also in focus, as Mashatile visited the historic Meiji Jingu forest, reflecting on the importance of nature in fostering societal development and linking it to the African philosophy of Ubuntu.
The visit comes at a time when South Africa is looking to bolster international partnerships in light of current geopolitical challenges confronting the nation and the global community. The Deputy President emphasized that his delegation’s trip aimed at fortifying economic collaborations, particularly in inclusive economic development and trade balance. “We want our two nations to collaborate with a particular emphasis on promoting inclusive economic development and ensuring a balance and increase in trade between the two nations,” he stated.
South Africa’s leadership in the G20 was also highlighted, with the Deputy President reiterating the country’s vision for its presidency under the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.’ He spoke about making a meaningful contribution to the expressions of the continent through Vision 2063 towards an integrated Africa playing a key role in the global community.
The Deputy President concluded his address by emphasizing the importance of global cooperation in addressing challenges such as climate change, rising nationalism, and economic instability. “Under the guiding principle of Ubuntu – the profound belief that ‘I am because you are’ – we are reminded of the interconnectedness of humanity,” he said, urging for deliberate conversation and meaningful collaboration.
Deputy President Mashatile arrived in Japan on Sunday and will conclude his visit on Wednesday, 19 March.