“For 68 years, the Chinese people have shaken the shackles of poverty by becoming the second-largest economy in the world.”

These were the words of Consul-General Kang Yong at the Cape Town celebration of the 68th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Kang Yong welcomed more than 100 guests at the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel last night. In attendance were parliamentarians, Mayco members, members of the Cape Winelands municipality and the Chinese community.

A special mention was made of local kung fu champion, Muhammad Chafeker, for uplifting communities.

 

Consul General Kang Yong, Ms PuJumei(left) and Michelle Frolick

 

Brazil’s Consul-General in Cape Town, Carlos Asfora, said it was a pleasure to be in attendance.

“I lived in China for almost four years and I enjoyed that period very much. We have a warm relationship with China and our economic partnership is very special,” he said.

Cape Winelands deputy mayor, Dirk Swart, praised the Chinese consul-general.

“With all the support they give, I had to be here to show my support to the Chinese community,” he said.

Zenariah Barends, chief of staff for Independent Media, said she was happy to join in the celebration.

“I am here on behalf of Sekunjalo and Independent Media. Our countries have a very close, family relationship. China chaired the Brics summit this year and set a positive precedent,” Barends said.

Kang Yong said China’s GDP rose from $18.9 billion in 1949 to $11.2 trillion in 2016.