On February 18, 2013, visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held talks with South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana- Mashabane in Cape Town. The two sides discussed bilateral relations, the upcoming BRICS summit to be hosted by South Africa in Durban on March 26-27, regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Yang said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 15 years ago, both countries have frequently exchanged high-level visits, enhanced political trust, deepened cooperation in various fields and coordinated smoothly on major international and regional affairs. China-South Africa relationship has become one of the fastest-growing, most dynamic and most important bilateral relations in their respective foreign ties. China is willing to work together with South Africa to promote their comprehensive strategic partnership.

Nkoana-Mashabane said South Africa is pleased with the significant progress of South Africa-China relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties. Both sides are firmly committed to advancing the comprehensive strategic partnership and believe that bilateral cooperation in economy, trade, culture, tourism and other fields will enjoy broader prospects for development. South Africa is stepping up efforts to prepare the fifth BRICS summit and appreciates the positive contribution made ​​by the Chinese side to promoting cooperation among developing countries. Nkoana-Mashabane said she was looking forward to Chinese leaders attending the summit and visiting South Africa. South Africa will work closely with China to ensure the success of the summit and push forward South Africa-China relations.

Yang pointed out that, in recent years, the BRICS mechanism has become an important platform for dialogue and cooperation among emerging markets. Chinese leaders will attend the fifth BRICS summit held in South Africa and visit the country. China will continue to strengthen communication and coordination with South Africa to prepare well for the summit, he added.

Yang stressed that both China and South Africa are major developing countries and emerging markets. To promote steady and sound development of the BRICS mechanism is not only in line with the common interests of BRICS members and developing countries, but also conducive to world peace and development. Yang expressed his belief that the summit will achieve the goal of enhancing solidarity and win-win cooperation and China-South Africa relations will surely achieve greater development.