S. African president lauds visit to China

Zhang Dejiang (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, meets with South African President Jacob Zuma in Beijing, capital of China, Dec 5, 2014. [Photo/Xinhua]

CAPE TOWN - South African President Jacob Zuma has characterized his visit to China as "a tremendous and fruitful success".

The positive outcomes of the visit were a true reflection of the strong deepening bilateral, trade and investment relations between South Africa and China, Zuma said in a statement posted on the government website on Sunday.

Zuma was speaking upon return from his state visit that took place on Dec 4-5.

"The visit has significantly strengthened our relations with China who are ready to work with South Africa to effectively implement all the plans and agreements that we have signed," the president said.

During the visit, both sides signed several agreements that will deepen bilateral relations.

The BRICS Development Bank was also discussed during the official talks, and both parties agreed on the establishment and operationalisation of the BRICS Development Bank as soon as possible, Zuma said.