Pretoria: South Africa has concluded a successful four-day mission to the 19th Pujiang Innovation Forum in Shanghai, becoming the first African country to participate as a Country of Honour. In his reflections, Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) Director-General, Dr. Mlungisi Cele, noted that this designation offered South Africa a significant platform to enhance scientific cooperation with China.
According to South African Government News Agency, the designation reflected the strategic relationship fostered by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Dr. Cele emphasized the importance of this role, stating, "This is key, and it is linked to the high-level strategic cooperation that the two Presidents agreed upon in terms of elevating relations between the two countries."
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Professor Blade Nzimande and China's Minister of Science and Technology, Yin Hejun, led the forum. The visit also allowed the ministers to review the progress of the Memorandum of Understanding signed during the G20 in 2025, showcasing the depth of bilateral cooperation.
Dr. Cele highlighted that South Africa's participation would bolster its position within BRICS and support its broader international engagements. The mission's success was also measured by the size and diversity of the South African delegation, which included representatives from science councils, universities, private companies, civil-society organizations, and various experts.
The forum provided South Africa a chance to display the capabilities and talent developed over time. "We were able to bring probably the largest delegation, made up of our science councils, universities, the private sector, civil-society organisations and experts," Dr. Cele remarked. The exposure demonstrated the potential of South African researchers and innovators while creating opportunities for international collaboration.
The delegation also engaged in discussions on how China nurtures young talent, with insights into fostering promising young entrepreneurs who have already achieved international recognition. "South Africa has learnt a lot, and I think we are not too far from them in certain key strategic areas," Cele stated.
Beyond formal discussions, South African performers highlighted the country's cultural diversity during a banquet hosted by China's Minister of Science and Technology. Dr. Cele noted the mission's success in showcasing how science diplomacy could strengthen international relations and advance domestic development.
"We are very proud and excited about this partnership. At the heart of all of this is making sure that we use science, technology and innovation to improve the quality of life and well-being, contribute towards inclusive and sustainable socioeconomic development, and use science diplomacy to help create a prosperous world and a better future for humanity," Cele concluded.