Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has affirmed Kenya’s commitment to bolster her relationship and strengthen ties with the People’s Republic of China.
Mudavadi spoke on Wednesday, during a commemoration ceremony to mark the 74th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The Prime CS praised the historical and fraternal relations between Kenya and China.
He said the relations between the two countries are based on mutual trust and benefit, underpinned by the principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.
“This year marks 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kenya and the People’s Republic of China. Incidentally, it is also the 60th independence year for Kenya. Kenya therefore recognizes the remarkable progress our two countries have made in socio-economic and political partnerships, which have resulted in the prosperity of our peoples,” Mudavadi said.
“I also take this opportunity to applaud the courage of the Chinese people who bravely fought for the strides they have made for their country, the fruit of whose celebration we are witnessing today.”
The Prime Cabinet Secretary said Kenya prioritises trade and investment as key facilitators of development to transform the country into a vibrant and robust economy.
He said Kenya appreciates investments from China, especially in infrastructure development projects.
He said Kenya would also like to participate in the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, which will be held in Beijing in October.
Mudavadi added that the Belt and Road Initiative has greatly contributed to Kenya's growth.
The Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Zhou Pingjian affirmed that China will continue working jointly with Kenya to deepen the traditional friendship.
Zhou said the two countries will also act on multilateralism, and defend the central role of the United Nations in international affairs and the common interests of developing countries.
"China-Kenya relations have sustained strong momentum for growth," he said, adding that China will deepen ties with Kenya and strengthen win-win cooperation.
Zhou insisted that China has remained the world’s second-largest economy since 2010 and Kenya should take advantage of their deepening ties to tap into the opportunities presented by China.
He said this will help in boosting Kenya’s economic transformation.
“In a short span of several decades, China has accomplished what took developed countries hundreds of years to accomplish. China’s rapid economic development and long-term social stability lie in the path they take,” Zhou said.