Kenya deepens strategic partnership with China

By Robert Mutasi

Kenya has reiterated its continued strategic partnership with the People's Republic of China, pinpointing a relationship based on mutual benefit, people-to-people cooperation, and a shared aspiration in the prosperity of the future.

This strong partnership has been termed transformative, sustainable, and one that continuously unlocks real economic growth and development for the two countries.

This was reiterated during a farewell ceremony for H.E. Zhou Pingjian, the outgoing Ambassador of China to Kenya, who has been praised for his commitment and efforts toward the improvement of Kenya-China relations.

During Zhou's time in office, the two countries have made huge steps in cementing bilateral relations, while promoting cooperation in various areas such as infrastructure, trade, and technology.

Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi spoke on behalf of the government and said that the partnership between the two nations focuses on empowering citizens.

"Together, we are laying the building blocks for an even closer Kenya-China community, anchored in a just and prosperous shared future," Mudavadi said.

Under the leadership of Zhou, Kenya and China have continued to cement their relations through activities aimed at advancing economic and social causes.

Projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway and investments in ICT infrastructure have been a perfect example of this collaboration for the long-term development goals of Kenya.

Among the guests were Principal Secretaries of National Treasury Dr. Chris Kiptoo, Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Dr. Korir Sing'oei, ICT Eng. John Tanui, Transport Mohamed Daghar, and Roads Eng. Joseph Mbugua of the government of Kenya.

Senior officials from State House led by Deputy Chief of Staff Josphat Nanok and from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs graced the function to show the importance of the occasion.

As Zhou gets ready to go back to Beijing, Kenya expressed its gratitude for his effort in strengthening their bilateral relationship.

"We wish him great success in his next chapter," Mudavadi said, adding that Zhou's legacy would be remembered as a cornerstone of the growing Kenya-China partnership.