On January 25, 2007, Chinese Consul General SHI Weiqiang met with Speaker of Cape Town Dirk Smit.

Consul General Shi introduced Chinese economic and social progress, as well as challenges in the way of development and living situations of Chinese community in Cape Town. Mr. Shi also elaborated Chinese Government's policy on Taiwan issue as requested. Mr. Shi said that the establishment of sistership between Hangzhou and Cape Town set up a sound basis for the comprehensive and in-depth development of exchanges and cooperation between the two cities. The sustainable development of friendly relationship will be enhanced by substantial cooperation, added shi. Mr. Smit agreed on Mr. Shi's opinion, he said that the Cape Town Municipal Government attached great importance to developing relations with Chinese local governments, especially with Hangzhou City. Smit pledged Cape Town will push forward the cooperation with Hangzhou in tourism, and textile clothing industry.