17 November 2009
We are all very much aware of the challenges of the global economic crisis confronting countries around the world. South Africa and China are no exceptions. To navigate the turbulent waters and crosswinds of this economic storm, we need to establish solid and mutually beneficial partnerships with like-minded countries. Addressing the unprecedented scale of the global economic crisis requires not only national efforts but initiatives at the regional and global levels.
South Africa acknowledges the People’s Republic of China’s important role as a factor for stability and economic development in Africa, and as an important player on the international stage.
As both China and South Africa move to give content to our shared view that South-South trade needs to be expanded and further developed; the relationship between our two countries need to be further strengthened, and in a manner which secures mutually shared benefits between our two nations. While we celebrate the decade-long mutual benefits of South Africa-China relations, we have noted the need to take additional measures to realize a great deal of untapped opportunities and potential of our bilateral relations.
One such area of potential is the tourism industry.
You will agree with me that international tourism is not only a fast expanding global industry, but also a bridge that brings closer cultures and civilizations. Indeed, tourism is a vibrant industry that generates wealth and brings closer people from different religions and cultures. It encourages mutual understanding between different races and cultures across the world. Because of tourism, different people from different races, countries and religions cease to be aliens with each other. They become the citizens of the global world.
Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the South African economy. Directly or indirectly, tourism contributes 7% of employment in South Africa. Since 1994 government decided to invest much more political capital and economic resources into tourism. We have started implementing ambitious programmes that we strongly believe will lead South Africa towards a much more strong position in the global tourism and leisure market.
Above all, South Africa’s greatest treasure is her people who are open, friendly and enjoy welcoming visitors. South Africa can stand tall when heroes and heroines of this world are counted. From politicians to writers from sportsmen to actors and actresses - South Africa has world ambassadors in every respect.
If tourism is an industry providing new experiences, South Africa stands on top of the list of destinations generating original and indelible experiences and impressions for visitors from any country. In recent years a growing number of Chinese citizens are increasingly visiting our shores. An analysis of arrival figures shows an increase of 5%. We believe that we can still do more to increase this number and in this regard, we are confident that if we can try and work hard as we do, this task at hand is surmountable.
We also know that the Chinese authorities have designated South Africa as a preferred destination for outbound tourism, which creates good opportunities for us, but as far as the potential is concerned we have only started to scratch the surface. To the outbound tourism operators present here today, I would like to invite you to interest and send your tourists to our country. It is a value for money destination, has good tourism infra-structure and is unique in many respects.
The formation of the South African Ministry of Tourism headed by my colleague Marthinus van Schalkwyk as a stand-alone department is testament to our government's bold vision for the growth and development of the tourism sector, and tourism’s fast-growing contribution to economic growth, human development and the creation of decent jobs.
As most of you know, South Africa is the host country of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Let me assure you that contrary to some negative media reports concerning our ability to fulfil this role, our country is ready to host the biggest and most successful sporting spectacular that the world has ever seen. We have already proven this ability through hosting a successful incident free Confederations Tournament and passed the test with flying colours.
Issued by African Nationa Congress