Nairobi — Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has lauded China's substantial foreign direct investment in Kenya, underscoring its crucial role in advancing critical infrastructure projects that have significantly advanced the nation's development.
During the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in Nairobi, Mudavadi underscored China's unwavering commitment to the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, a fundamental pillar of the bilateral relations between the two nations.
Mudavadi took the opportunity to praise the strong fraternal bonds shared between Kenya and China and expressed his admiration for the impressive accomplishments made by China, which have greatly contributed to Kenya's transformation into a modern and developed nation.
"We commend China's substantial foreign direct investment, particularly in the field of infrastructure projects. Let us persist in fortifying our ties, elevating cooperation, and pursuing common opportunities for mutual growth," he said at the colourful ceremony held at the Chinese Embassy in Kenya.
Kenyan President William Ruto is set to attend the third Belt and Road Initiative summit, commemorating a decade of the initiative, to be held in Beijing.
During this forthcoming visit, President Ruto is expected to engage in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the forum, which is scheduled for mid-October, according to government officials familiar with his itinerary.
Among the noteworthy projects within the Belt and Road Initiative is the 670-kilometer Standard Gauge Railway, which links Mombasa Port and the Naivasha Dry Port, as well as the Nairobi expressway, constructed by Chinese entities.
In his address, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Dr. Zhou Pinjian accentuated the importance of China's relationships with various nations, reflecting on the extraordinary strides China has made over the last seven decades. He particularly praised the unwavering efforts and fortitude of the Chinese people.
Ambassador Zhou noted the substantial enhancement in life expectancy as a standout example of China's progress. In 1949, at the time of the People's Republic of China's establishment, life expectancy in China stood at a mere 35 years. Today, it has more than doubled, surpassing 78 years.
He also highlighted significant advancements in education, healthcare, and security. China has established the world's largest education system, providing millions of students with access to higher education. In the realm of healthcare, notable progress has contributed to the increased life expectancy previously mentioned.
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Furthermore, Ambassador Zhou emphasized China's transformation from a nation that could not manufacture a tractor at the time of its founding into the world's largest manufacturing hub, marking a remarkable journey of industrialization and economic growth, positioning China as a global major power.
In terms of China's relations with Kenya, Ambassador Zhou reaffirmed that Kenya is regarded as an equal partner, and he expressed China's readiness to elevate diplomatic ties to new heights, with the shared goal of fostering mutually beneficial cooperation. This reiterates the commitment of both nations to strengthening their connections and making substantive contributions to each other's progress and development.
