On 23 November 2015, Consul General Kang Yong met with Hon Sharna Fernandez, Speaker of Western Cape Provincial Parliament. Hon Piet Pretorius, Deputy Speaker of Western Cape Provincial Parliament attended the meeting.

 

 

Speaker Fernandez welcomed Mr Kang upon his assumption of office, and praised China's achievements in economic growth. She noted that Chinese tourists are attracted to Western Cape for its unique geographic position, natural scenery, mixed culture and specialty products, and that Chinese business has reached many underdeveloped communities, benefiting local economy and providing convenience for residents. She expected to further cooperate with the Consulate General to better understand China's progress, to enhance exchanges with China, and to seek cooperation opportunities in various fields.

 

 

Consul General Kang Yong reviewed the steady development of friendly relationship between China and South Africa, and the close cooperation between local governments and legislatures of the two countries. South Africa is chosen by Chinese enterprises as their base to expand business into Africa, and by Chinese visitors as their tourist destination, with Western Cape Province and the City of Cape Town being their natural gateway to South Africa and the African continent. The Consulate General looks forward to close cooperation with Western Cape Provincial Government and Parliament to promote the friendly relationship and mutual exchanges between China and Western Cape.

Mr Kang expressed his appreciation for the assistance of Western Cape Government in dealing with recent murder cases inflicted upon two Chinese citizens, and pointed out that Chinese citizens, while exploring business opportunities in South Africa, have contributed to local economy, job creation, community construction and charity causes. He hoped to strengthen cooperation with Western Cape Province to create safer communities and friendlier business environments, a win-win situation beneficial for both the safety of Chinese citizens and local socio-economic progress.