China Helps BRICS Countries Deepen Cooperation with Practical Actions "- Visit to South Africa's BRICS Affairs Coordinator and Deputy Director General of the South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ma Hongge

The 16th BRICS Leaders' Meeting is the first meeting of BRICS leaders after its expansion. Currently, the BRICS cooperation mechanism, with its diversity and representativeness, demonstrates more important economic and political influence. "Ma Hongge, the coordinator of BRICS affairs in South Africa and Deputy Director General of the South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in an interview with our reporter that BRICS countries will make new contributions to addressing global challenges and promoting common development with a more united posture.

Mahongo stated that the BRICS countries are representatives of emerging market and developing countries, and more comprehensive and in-depth cooperation among BRICS countries can help promote the "Global South" to play a greater role in international affairs. The commitment of BRICS countries to upholding multilateralism and promoting inclusive development is of great significance in addressing the complex international situation today

The BRICS countries can play a greater role in promoting global development and advancing South South cooperation. Mahongo believes that the BRICS cooperation mechanism promotes strengthened economic cooperation, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing among member countries, which is not only beneficial to the development of BRICS countries themselves, but also creates more opportunities for other developing countries. The joint development of African countries and BRICS countries will help further achieve sustainable development, enhance people's well-being, solve various problems, and promote world peace and development.

Ma Hongge positively praised China's consistent adherence to the concept of peaceful development and long-term commitment to maintaining world peace and stability. China has taken practical actions to help BRICS countries deepen cooperation, strengthen cultural exchanges, enhance mutual understanding, practice true multilateralism, and enhance the voice and influence of emerging market countries and developing countries in international affairs

Mahongo stated that South Africa has benefited greatly from joining the BRICS cooperation mechanism. From 2017 to 2022, the total trade volume between South Africa and other BRICS countries continued to grow, with a growth rate of over 70% in 2022 compared to 2017. Foreign direct investment in important fields such as mining, automobiles, clean energy, and information technology is also increasing. In addition, the New Development Bank provides funding for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in South Africa, which helps promote industrial and technological progress, create employment opportunities, and assist South Africa in achieving economic growth and sustainable development goals.

People's Daily (October 22, 2024, Issue 05)