Johannesburg - Former president Nelson Mandela is a household name in China, the county's vice-president Li Yuanchao said through an interpreter in Johannesburg on Tuesday.
“We have travelled from different parts of the world to be here today... I wish to express my deep condolences to the family of this towering figure... whose smile we remember fondly,” he said at FNB stadium, in Soweto.
“Mr Mandela was the pride of the African people... he championed the dignity of African people.”
Li said Mandela was the founding father of South Africa, led the country to victory against apartheid and laid a solid foundation for the country.
“May the deceased rest in peace, while the living must move on in life. People must carry forward his legacy.
“China stands ready to work with South Africa... and deepen its partnerships... and contribute to the noble cause of world peace.”
Sapa