Ekurhuleni welcomes Jinan delegation, revives sister city agreement
Ekurhuleni renews ties with Jinan to strengthen economic and cultural co-operation.
Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza welcomed a delegation from Jinan, China, on Thursday, expressing appreciation for the continued partnership between the two cities.
The visit, he noted, aims to revive the sister city agreement initially signed in 2017.
Reflecting on his longstanding relationship with Jinan, Xhakaza shared that he had visited the city three times, helping to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties.
He highlighted Ekurhuleni’s strategic economic role, noting that the city is home to the OR Tambo International Airport, Africa’s largest and busiest airport, and serves as a key manufacturing and logistics hub.
Ekurhuleni contributes nearly 25% of Gauteng’s economy and more than 6% of SA’s GDP, he said.
This renewed partnership marks a significant step toward deeper co-operation, increased trade and enhanced cultural exchange between Ekurhuleni and Jinan, with a shared focus on mutual growth and prosperity.
