Publication

This paper examines the relations between South Africa and China, including the historical links between the two countries, their diplomatic and multilateral cooperation, their trade and investment ties, and their public media engagement. The paper additionally argues that the relationship between the two states has developed at a steady pace since the onset of formal diplomatic ties in 1998, but certain factors -- including South Africa's commitment to democracy, the diversity of its civil society, and its economic and political aspirations in Africa -- could complicate matters in the future.