The Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature anticipates a massive economic boost for the province after meeting with the newly appointed Chinese Consul-General at the Legislature in Bhisho, on Tuesday.
The Deputy Speaker, Honourable Bulelwa Tunyiswa, hosted the high-ranking foreign dignitary last week, Consul-General of China Liang Shugen on his first visit to the province. The Chinese delegation paid an official visit to the province to foster economic ties and further improve existing collaborations.
The Cape Town-based Mr Liang Shugen visited the Legislature barely two months after his appointment as the new Chinese Consul-General. Mr Liang Shugen, accompanied by his wife Ma Shu, the Director of the Consular Division, Ms Li Libei, and Assistant Mr Yang Yingjian, received a warm welcome from the Legislature’s Chairperson of Committees Honourable Alfred Mtsi, the Chief Whip Honourable Humphrey Maxegwana, the Leader of COPE Honourable Sam Kwelita and senior officials.
Expressing her delight in hosting the Chinese delegation, the Deputy Speaker announced the Legislatures’ intention to expand its relations with the international community. She commended China for successfully lifting its population out of poverty, earning itself a ranking among the first world countries. She also identified key areas in the Province that requires a major boost, namely; job creation, skills transfer and technological development. The Deputy Speaker further encouraged China to invest in the Eastern Cape province.
The discussions with the delegation largely revolved around future cooperation between China and the Eastern Cape province. A wide range of investment and business opportunities that lie ahead for the province were highlighted. Mr Liang Shugen revealed China’s interest in promoting the economy of the Eastern Cape province. These opportunities would advance the living standards of the people.
The Consul-General further assured the Legislature of looming business opportunities stating that his visit to the province aimed at exploring investment prospects. “There are so many opportunities that can arise out of our good relations for the benefit of the province. “I’m hoping we can generate further dialogue on what are key initiatives that we can do”, he said.
The Chief Whip honourable Maxegwana sealed the discussions by inviting China to provide a helping hand to South Africa in acquiring economic freedom. He emphasised on the need to safeguard and nurture the relationship that already exists between these countries.
The Consul-General is due to meet with the Speaker of the Legislature, Honourable Fikile Xasa, on his next visit to the province to further discussions on improved relations around economic affairs and legislative processes.
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Bulelwa Ganyaza, Senior Manager: Media Liaison
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