BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
South Africa has successfully concluded a four-day mission to the 19th Pujiang Innovation Forum in Shanghai, becoming the first African nation to participate as Country of Honour. The designation elevated the country’s profile and opened new avenues for scientific cooperation with China. Department of Science, Technology and Innovation Director-General Dr Mlungisi Cele described the recognition as a significant achievement.
“We are very pleased, grateful and appreciative of the opportunity that South Africa has been given by China to serve as the Country of Honour. It is the first African country to be given this status at this conference, which meant that South Africa was almost co-hosting this event,” he said. Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Professor Blade Nzimande and China’s Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hejun jointly oversaw the forum.
Cele noted that the elevated role reflected the strategic partnership established by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The ministers also reviewed progress on the Memorandum of Understanding signed during the G20 in 2025, expressing satisfaction with the engagements and identifying follow-up actions.
The mission is expected to strengthen South Africa’s standing within BRICS and support broader international cooperation. A large and diverse South African delegation participated, comprising representatives from science councils, universities, private companies, civil-society organisations and innovation experts. Cele said the group showcased the country’s exceptional capabilities and talent developed over time, which South Africa seeks to leverage through its partnership with China.
Delegation members also took part in a session on China’s approach to identifying and nurturing young talent. They observed how individuals under the age of 22 had already founded companies and won international awards. Cele acknowledged valuable lessons while noting that South Africa holds strengths in key strategic areas despite existing challenges.
Beyond formal discussions, South African performers highlighted the country’s cultural diversity at a banquet hosted by the Chinese minister, with support from Brazilian colleagues. Cele framed the mission as an example of effective science diplomacy. “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,” he said.
