Minister Zizi Kodwa holds successful Bilateral meeting with China’s Fujian Province Governor
Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Honourable Zizi Kodwa hosted the Governor of China’s Fujian province, Honourable Zhao Long, at Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum in Pretoria, on Monday 18 September 2023.
The meeting sought to reaffirm the strong ties between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China, and to deepen sport and cultural ties between South Africa and Fujian.
Minister Kodwa expressed gratitude and appreciation to China for participating in the BRICS Ministers of Sport Meeting, which was held in Durban in July, as well as the 15th BRICS Summit, which was held in Sandton, Johannesburg, in August 2023.
Minister Kodwa shared that South Africa is eagerly awaiting the arrival of Chinese teams for the upcoming BRICS Games, which are set to place in the country from 18 to 21 October 2023.
The Minister says, “The BRICS Games will showcase various sporting disciplines, including tennis, table tennis, beach volleyball, swimming, and badminton. We have heard of the impressive badminton prowess of China's Fujian Province and hope to see an exhilarating competition between our teams in this sport during the Games,”.
While Fujian is known for being strong in badminton, the province is also home to sportswear company, Kelme, which has supported some sports teams in South Africa.
Governor Long shared that Fujian has seen extensive development and growth, and that the province has invaluable assets in theory and practice.
Minister Kodwa says, “The Republic of South Africa and the People’s Republic of China enjoy a remarkable and enduring relationship. I am encouraged by the continued support by Fujian entities such as Kelme to support our sports clubs to improve the sporting sector.”
Minister Kodwa adds, “Our collaboration in sports reflects the broader partnership between South Africa and China. It is a partnership built on mutual respect, shared goals, and a commitment to the well-being and development of our people.”
Media enquiries:
- Mr Litha Mpondwana, Media Liaison Officer: Office of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture │ Email: LithaM@dsac.gov.za │ Cell: 064 802 3003
- Mr Mickey Modisane, Chief Director: Stakeholder Relations and Special Projects, Department of Sport, Arts and Culture │Email: MickeyM@dsac.gov.za │Cell: 082 992 0101
- Ms Zimasa Velaphi, Head of Communication and Marketing: Department of Sport, Arts and Culture │Email: zimasav@dsac.gov.za │ Cell: 072 172 8925
