Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi assures everyone of GNU’s steadfast policy and emphasizes strengthened relations with China.
According to a recent report by IOL, on Wednesday, while speaking at the Beijing-South Africa Business Cooperation Promotion Conference in Johannesburg, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi confirmed that there will be no policy shift in the Government of National Unity (GNU). He further reassured the conference attendees that the GNU’s policies will remain unchanged.
Lesufi emphasized strengthened relations with China and accelerated economic opportunities. According to the publication, a delegation from the Beijing Sub-Council of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) convened in Johannesburg to explore business prospects and collaboration with their South African counterparts.
The Premier said, “No one will lead us to exit BRICS; we are committed to remaining part of BRICS indefinitely, regardless of changes in government. China remains a reliable partner.”
Lesufi, speaking about his visit to China, praised the country’s safety measures, and also expressed the desire to replicate them in SA. He made reference to the current installation of 19 000 street cameras in Gauteng, and shared plans to increase this to 80 000 with the assistance of China. This, he said will help in providing safety for investors, tourists, and citizens.
“We seek China’s expertise in crime-fighting technologies,” Lesufi said. “Our goal is to revitalise our CBD, positioning Johannesburg to compete globally with cities like Beijing and Dubai.”
He further shared plans to build a smart city in Gauteng. According to him, this could be achieved in collaboration with China.
