By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile has concluded his working visit to Turkey where he served as Co-Chair of the inaugural Bi-National Commission (BNC).
The intention of the BNC is to host high-level discussions surrounding deepening economical, political and social cooperation between the two countries.
The visit took place from the 15th to the 16th of October which consisted of signing several agreements as well as engaging in bilateral meetings with Turkish leaders, as well as Deputy President Mashatile giving a keynote address at the BNC.
The BNC is built on the bones of an agreement that was entered between the two countries which dates back to 2012. This visit was also aimed at bolstering trade and investment ties with Turkey which has proven to be a growing partner in Africa as there were ongoing calls for stronger economic links in order to boost job creation and development in South Africa.
The current bilateral trade between the two countries stands at $2.5 billion as there is potential for growth in sectors such as agriculture, tourism and technology. The delegation that joined Deputy President Mashatile consisted of key ministers as South Africa aims to emphasize their intentions with Turkey.
The trip has opened up the doors for Turkish investment In South Africa which would hope to create more jobs and foster successful technology transfers simultaneously.
The BNC which was planned to be has been initiated from 2012 in order to coordinate ties at deputy president level. President of Turkey, Erdogan has given significant praise to South Africa regarding the country’s ongoing support for the freedom of Palestine and has further wished South Africa success for the upcoming G20 Leaders Summit which will commence in November.
“This forum comes at an important moment. Both our countries redefining our place in a rapidly changing global economy, one shaped by new trade patterns, climate transitions, and shifts in regional value chains” said Mashatile
“These global challenges are not without opportunity. They give emerging economies like ours the chance to lead differently, to lead with innovation, resilience, and partnership at the centre” Mashatile explained further.
The BNC serves as a solid forum that aims to enhance cooperation as well as address shared commitment to fostering cooperation, addressing shared interests in trade, development and security.
There was a signing ceremony that took place on Thursday which established the Joint Economic and Trade Commission (JETCO) which will aim to resolve barriers and trade flows between the two nations.This agreement will emphasize and increase Turkish involvement with regards to any projects that South Africa undertake including the addition of over 50 Turkish companies operating in South Africa.
“I sincerely hope that your immortal spirit will guide our discussions and the high-level dialogue and joint decision-making that our two countries will be engaged in, for mutual development, cooperation and lasting prosperity. We are honoured to be in this sacred midst of history and greatness” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) was also signed which is aimed at enhancing higher education and training as well as promoting student exchanges and skill development.
Deputy President Mashatile held bilateral engagements with the ATA Holding group, which was led by Mr Korhan Kurdoglu, who served as Chairman.
He took to explaining the company’s readiness to invest in South Africa in areas which include agri-business and food production as well as cold chain logistics and distribution science and technology, digital transformation, infrastructure and foreign trade synergies, financial services and co-investments which will include sports, arts and culture as well as tourism.
Deputy President Mashatile also embarked on a visit to Turkey’s capital, Istanbul, in order to participate in the South Africa-Turkiye Business Council as he engaged with Turkish investors that are interested in the South African market. Mashatile continued to address the Turkiye Africa business and Economic Forum (TABEF) which commenced on Friday 17 October 2025.
