NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 27 – The Chinese Embassy in Kenya on Wednesday celebrated the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, even as the country prepares for the forthcoming 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
During the colourful event held at the Embassy in Nairobi, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Dr. Zhou Pingjian, underlined China’s steadfast dedication to facilitating shared growth through dialogue and cooperation. He stressed the commitment to an open, environmentally sustainable approach to BRI cooperation.
This dual celebration holds great significance as it showcases China’s historical journey and its vision for the future. The Belt and Road Initiative established a decade ago, is a testament to China’s ambition to foster global connectivity, development, and cooperation.
In his address, Ambassador Zhou emphasized that the upcoming Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will be a cornerstone event to plan high-quality Belt and Road collaboration. As the 10th-anniversary milestone approaches, this forum is set to host participants from over 130 countries, reaffirming the initiative’s global significance.
China is resolute in its commitment to shared growth, underlining the importance of an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach in its collaborations. The Belt and Road Initiative’s success has hinged on high standards and a people-centered strategy.
Kenya, recognized as a pivotal partner in Belt and Road cooperation, stands out in China-Africa collaboration, having actively participated in the first Belt and Road Forum in 2017 and the second in 2019. As 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of China-Kenya diplomatic relations, Ambassador Zhou reiterated China’s unwavering commitment to further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
With both anniversaries serving as a backdrop for China’s diplomatic and development journey, it is clear that the Belt and Road Initiative is set to play an even more pivotal role in fostering international cooperation and shared growth.
Dr. Zhou stated, “We will continue to follow a high-standard, people-centered, and sustainable approach to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation with partner countries.”
This year commemorates the 60th anniversary of China-Kenya diplomatic relations, with China expressing its commitment to further enhancing solidarity and cooperation between the two nations.
Ambassador Zhou highlighted China’s readiness to collaborate with Kenya in defending the central role of the United Nations in international affairs and safeguarding the shared interests of developing countries.
“China is ready to work with Kenya on the implementation of the Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa and safeguard regional peace and development,” Ambassador Zhou affirmed.
He also unveiled the mutual aspiration of elevating China-Kenya’s comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to new heights, promising substantial benefits for both nations and their people.
Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, who was the chief guest at the event acknowledged China’s substantial contributions to Kenya’s infrastructure development, underscoring the enduring and constructive collaboration between the two nations.
China’s Belt and Road Forum anticipates playing a pivotal role in advancing international cooperation and fostering shared growth for all participating countries.
