China commits to strengthen ties with Kenya as it marks 74 years

The People’s Republic of China has marked 74 years since its founding on October 1, 1949.

To celebrate the anniversary, the Chinese Embassy in Kenya invited delegates from across the country as they marked their remarkable achievements.

Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman, Speaker of the Senate Gladys Shollei, Kisii Governor Simba Arati and Royal Media Services Editorial Director Linus Kaikai were among the invited guests.

Speaking during the event on Wednesday, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Zhou Pingjian said China has remained the world’s second-largest economy since 2010.

“In a short span of several decades, China has accomplished what took developed countries hundreds of years to accomplish,” Pingjian said.

He said the key to China’s rapid economic development and long-term social stability lies in the path they take.

“Working under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the resilient and assiduous Chinese people have blazed a trail of socialism with Chinese characteristics and embarked on an epic journey toward national rejuvenation,” Pingjian said.

The Ambassador affirmed that China will work with Kenya to jointly act on multilateralism, and defend the central role of the United Nations in international affairs and the common interests of developing countries.

In addition, they will also help in the advancement of the implementation of the Outlook on peace and development in the Horn of Africa, and safeguard regional peace and development.

“China firmly supports Kenya in safeguarding sovereign independence and national dignity, supports Kenya in following a development path suited to its national conditions, and supports Kenya in playing a greater role in regional and international affairs,” Pingjian said.

As 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of China-Kenya diplomatic relations, Pingjian said China views and grows China-Kenya relations from a strategic height.

“Guided by the principles of sincerity, real results, affinity, and good faith and with a commitment to the greater good and shared benefits, China endeavors to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with Kenya,” Pingjian said.

He noted that through the anniversary, they are committed in deepening the traditional friendship of China and Kenya.

“China stands ready to work with Kenya to take the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries as a new starting point to deepen traditional friendship, align both countries’ strategies for revitalization, and strengthen win-win cooperation,” Pingjian said.

“China is committed to putting into action the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. We are committed to implementing the outcomes of the Belt and Road Forum, the FOCAC meetings and the China-Africa Leader’s Dialogue.

“Together, we will bring the China-Kenya comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to a new level in the new era and deliver greater benefits to the people of both countries.”