Strategic cooperation agreement signed between Mount Taishan and SANParks
In a very significant development in Western Cape today, a strategic cooperation agreement was signed between Mount Taishan and the South African National Parks.
The agreement was signed with the support of the Western Cape government and the government of Shandong Province.
The Cooperation Agreement (CA) marked an important milestone in strengthening international cooperation on conservation and sustainable development.
According to the statement from SANParks, the CA provides a framework for collaboration in biodiversity conservation , protected area management, sustainable tourism, environmental education, climate change adaptation, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise.
SANParks CEO Ms Hapiloe Sello said the partnership reflects our shared commitment to protecting natural heritage while creating opportunities for sustainable tourism, knowledge exchange, and inclusive growth.
“We look forward to working with Mount Tai and our government partners to strengthen conservation efforts and deliver lasting benefits for our protected areas and the communities they support,” he said.
A non-binding framework, the CA lays the foundation for future joint initiatives that will benefit both people and protected natural areas.
Western Cape Social Development Minister Jaco Londt said: “Two remarkable destinations , both UNESCO World heritage Sites, the most sacred mountains in China, the other an iconic, globally recognised landmark and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. This twinning agreement is about further unlocking the full potential of collaboration between two remarkable destinations. While it is, in spirit, a mountain to mountain partnership between Mount Tai and Table Mountain, it has the potential to introduce the entire Western Cape to one of the world’s largest tourism market.it gives us the opportunity to showcase everything our province has to offer, from world class wine lands and beautiful coastline to our rich culture, welcoming communities and of course, our iconic mountains.”
According to the SANParks statement, the partnership is also about unlocking new business opportunities.
“Our relationship with Shandong Province has already shown what can be achieved.
Hisense’s investment is proof that investing in the Western Cape can be mutually beneficial, creating jobs and supporting economic growth while delivering value for our international partners. We want this partnership to open the door to even more opportunities for tourism, trade, investments and stronger people to people ties that will benefit both the Weston Cape and the Shandong Province for many years to come,” said SANParks statement.
