On March 17, 2025, Consul General of China in Johannesburg, Mr. Pan Qingjiang, met with the Executive Mayor of Maluti A Phofung, Cllr. Malekula Melato. Mr. Pan briefed the Executive Mayor on the development of China-South Africa relations and sub-national exchanges and cooperation, expressing his willingness to further engage with Maluti A Phofung for a closer relationship. Cllr. Melato spoke highly of the bilateral relations and welcomed Chinese enterprises to do business and invest in the municipality.