The Honourable Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature concludes her visit to the Republic of China, at the 15th China Henan International Investment & Trade Fair (CHIITF)

The Honourable Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature Dr. Desbo Mohono concludes her week long visit to the People’s Republic of China, where she attended the 15th China Henan International Investment & Trade Fair (CHIITF), held in Zhengzhou.
A series of high-standard economic trade exchange activities were organized by the China Henan International Investment & Trade Fair Officials, including industrial matchmaking, project negotiations, and exhibitions.

During an introductory meeting held in Liaoning Province, Shenyang with the Chinese officials, Dr. Mohono emphasized the importance of gathering leaders and friends from around the world to promote cooperation and development.

The Honourable Speaker also adds that, the North West Provincial Legislature is committed to driving this change. And that through active oversight, the Legislature ensures that provincial departments deliver on their mandates.

“Through public participation programmes, we are bringing citizens closer to the decision-making table. Through robust law-making, we are creating an environment where economic growth, social justice, and sustainable development can thrive.” – said Dr. Mohono.

As the Trade Fair took off in Henan Province, the Honourable Speaker gave a keynote address, where she highlighted that the opportunity to engage in such a platform with the Province of Henan is not just a symbolic gesture of friendship between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China – but a relationship that has been upgraded to an all-round strategic partnership in the new era. A global strategic significance and a model of solidarity and cooperation for developing countries.

Diplomatic ties between South Africa and China began to strengthen since 1998 and became stronger after 2010 when South Africa joined the BRICS block, thus making China its biggest trading partner. Emphasising the importance of sustaining this partnership, Dr. Mohono says, “This partnership led to the signing of an MOU between Henan and North West Provinces amongst others, which ensured that our Provinces collaborate and assist each other in the development of our people”.

The Honourable Speaker says, even though the NW has the worst unemployment rate in South Africa at about 54,7% with the youth being the hardest hit – by leveraging on the Henan Province’s industries, the North West Province could attract more investment, expand agro-processing and manufacturing, create industrial hubs, and invest in youth skills. This would directly tackle unemployment, especially for young people, while stimulating sustainable socio-economic growth.

Parallel to these activities. Dr. Mohono took part in a consultation with the Chairman of Henan Provincial People’s Congress, Mr Ya Li. The Congress, which operates similarly to the North West Provincial Legislature, is responsible for law-making, oversight and public participation in governance.
The week-long engagements winded down to a dinner with the Officials, where Dr. Mohono received gifts, and was acknowledged and thanked her for the visit to Henan Province. The Henan Provinces’ Officials emphasised the need to collaborate and work together as two provinces.

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