Shanghai welcomed the South African Navy frigate “Amatola” on Sunday for a five-day goodwill visit, marking its first port call in the city and only the second visit by a South African naval vessel to China since 2008.

The frigate was greeted at a naval base of the PLA Eastern Theatre Command with a formal ceremony, complete with lined-up sailors and a military band. The visit aims to strengthen strategic trust, enhance practical exchanges, and promote regional peace and stability.

During the visit, the two navies will hold ship tours, sports matches, and discussions on maritime security, collaboration, and joint training. Chinese naval officer Zhai Weikun noted the trip "established a broad platform for cooperation… and jointly contribute to building a maritime community with a shared future."

This visit reflects growing engagement between South Africa and China, highlighting the role of naval diplomacy in strengthening global relations.

Source: China Central Television