Johannesburg – In celebration of National Womens Day in South Africa, Consul General of the Peoples Republic of China in Joburg, Zhongdong Tang, on Tuesday hosted the South Africa-China Womens Forum, in collaboration with the Africa Chinese Womens Association.
The event which celebrated the role of women in both Chinese and South African societies was held under the theme: Women Together for a Shared Future.
The Chinese Consul General in Johannesburg began his speech by wishing everyone a “Happy Womens Month and Womens Day”.
Since the year of 1995, South Africa commemorates its National Women’s Month every year in August.
“Today, we gather here to celebrate Women’s Day… to recognise and honor the invaluable contributions of women in our society,” said Zhongdong Tang.
“Women’s Month is a tribute not only to the women who marched on August 9th in 1956 but also a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit and the significant role women play in shaping our nation’s progress.
“Throughout the history of human being, women have been the architects of positive changes and progresses in every aspect of our lives.
“From the household to the workplace, from education to leadership positions, women have showcased their resilience, determination, and remarkable abilities.”
Chinese President Xi Jinping pointed out on several occasions that without women, there would be no continuity of the human race or human society.
President Xi emphasised that women in China are actively participating in the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era.
In particular on various fronts such as winning the battle to build a moderately prosperous society in all respects, fighting poverty eradication, and combating Covid-19.
Zhongdong Tang said Chinese Women have fought bravely and tenaciously, fully demonstrating the important role of ‘half the sky’ with their passion and efforts.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa once said, With the right support, women can become anything they want to be, from star soccer players to fighter pilots, judges, members of Parliament, businesswomen, and entrepreneurs.
President Ramaphosa pointed out that more than 60% of public servants are women currently in South Africa.
Commenting on women in aviation, the Chinese Consul General in Johannesburg said: “We are proud to see Ms. Liu Yang, who made history as the first Chinese female astronaut in space.
“We are also excited to see Major Mandisa Mfeka, who has broken down all kinds of barriers, such as race, gender, and class to become the first black woman fighter pilot in South Africa.
“Regardless of cultural backgrounds or geographical distances, women across our two nations share several inherent characteristics.”
Zhongdong Tang said both South African and Chinese women embody a deep sense of familial responsibility.
“They are nurturing pillars of each family, providing unwavering support, and instilling values in the younger generations,” Zhongdong Tang said.
“Such kind of dedication to families strengthens the foundation of our societies.”
He said women in both nations have displayed remarkable resilience and adaptability.
In the face of challenges, they have consistently exhibited an ability to evolve and innovate, contributing significantly to their respective communities and economies.
Zhongdong Tang said Chinese and South African women have shown exceptional leadership qualities.
“They have risen to prominent positions in various fields, from politics and business to science and the arts,” said Zhongdong Tang.
“Their achievements serve as beacons of inspiration for future generations.”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Africa and China.
“During the past 25 years, our two governments have engaged in dialogues and discussions on issues related to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and so on,” Zhongdong Tang said.
“There have been a number of exchanges of delegations and visits among female leaders, activists, and officials.”
Such exchanges and visits provide opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and partnership building to advance women’s causes in China and South Africa.
The exchanges also help to push governments and societies to take steps to promote economic empowerment for women.
This includes supporting women entrepreneurs, providing access to training and financial resources, and facilitating trade and investment opportunities for women-led businesses.
Cooperation in the field of education and skills development is also essential in enhancing opportunities for women in both countries.
“Efforts have been made to strengthen educational exchanges, scholarship programs, and capacity-building initiatives for women,” said Zhongdong Tang.
“Cultural exchanges between South Africa and China have also played a role in promoting understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures, traditions, and contributions of women in society.”
Zhongdong Tang said the Chinese Consulate General Office in Johannesburg always attaches great importance to womens development and cooperation between our two nations.
Last year, on August 11th my office held the South Africa-China Women Forum with the theme Womens Empowerment and Womens Protection.
Zhongdong Tang said it was highly appreciated that women from all walks of life actively participated in the discussion.
“We witnessed women who took part in the event built business relationship and hand in hand to fulfill social responsibility after the forum,” said Zhongdong Tang.
“The fruitful results lead us to this stage and encourage my office to hold this forum again.
“Today, we will have two-panel discussions focusing on Brics and Women.
“One is under the theme of ‘BRICS Cooperation in Womens View’ and the Other is titled ‘Independent and Self-reliant Women’.
South Africa will chair the 15th BRICS Summit this month.
“It is a good time for all of us to review the BRICS cooperation and look ahead from the perspective of women,” said Zhongdong Tang.
“Within this framework, women play a pivotal role in fostering meaningful partnerships and advancing mutual understanding.”
The Chinese Consul General in Johannesburg said the cooperation of women under the BRICS mechanism has led to the implementation of various initiatives that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
“Under the BRICS mechanism, women have united to address common challenges and create opportunities for the growth of members,” said Zhongdong Tang.
“Highlighting the topic of independent and self-reliant women not only helps break stereotypes and dispel misconceptions about women’s capabilities, showcasing diverse roles women can play in society beyond traditional domestic roles but also proves women to serve as powerful role models for younger generations.
“Through sharing their experiences and achievements, these women will inspire others to pursue their life goals and dreams without limitations. I wish these two-panel discussions a big success.”
Zhongdong Tang said the 2023 South Africa Women’s Month provides us with a momentous occasion to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in our society.
“Let us honor their strength, perseverance, and compassion while acknowledging the shared characteristics that bind women in China and South Africa together,” said said Zhongdong Tang.
“As we move forward, let us embrace the spirit of collaboration under the BRICS mechanism, pave the way for a stronger, more resilient, and just society for all women, and recognise that women’s cooperation holds the key to building a brighter and more prosperous future for all.”
Dignitaries in attendance included:
- Hon. Ms. Nokuzola (Sisisi) Tolashe, Deputy Minister in the Presidency and the President of the ANC Women’s League,
- Hon. Ms. Febe Potgieter, General manager of ANC as well as the representative of ANC first deputy Secretary General Ms. Mokonyane in this event,
- Hon. Ms. Ntombovuyo Veronica Mente, National Chair Commissar of EFF,
- Hon. Ms. Poppy Mailola, Deputy Secretary General Commissar of EFF,
- Hon. Ms. Lerato Ngobeni, National Spokesperson of ActionSA,
- Hon. Ms Bronwynn Anne Engelbrecht. Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature from DA,
- Hon. Ms. Gadija Brown, MEC for Finance of the Free State Province,
- Hon. Ms. Zhao Jianling, Head of Africa Chinese Women Association,
- Hon. Ms. Luo Meiwei, Head of China Construction Bank Joburg
