Dear friends in South Africa, in the People's Republic of China, and around the world,
I wish you all well as we usher in the Chinese year of the tiger, an animal that symbolizes strength, bravery and independence.As we recover and rebuild in the wake of COVID 19, it is our wish that the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and South Africa will lead to mutual economic growth, development and common prosperity, prosperity for ourselves, for our respective regions, and for the rest of the world. In the year ahead, our focus will be ending the pandemic, alleviating poverty, reducing inequality and creating more jobs.
South Africa is grateful to the People's Republic of China for its support throughout the pandemic, and particularly for working to ensure that Africa has greater access to COVID-19 vaccines. The global recovery depends on everyone being vaccinated. We are only safe when everyone is safe. No country and no community must be left behind. There is a wise African proverb that says“ if you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go further, go together.”
May the friendship between South Africa and the People's Republic of China endure and may we face this new year with courage, strength and hope. I wish you all a very happy new year. Thank you！
