China and Kenya have forged a remarkable partnership over the past six decades, serving as a benchmark for steadfast ties both in Africa and globally. 🇨🇳🇰🇪
Starting with historical roots that date back over 600 years when the great Ming Dynasty navigator Zheng He set foot on Kenya's eastern coast, the bond between the two nations has only grown stronger. Shortly after Kenya gained independence on December 12, 1963, China was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Republic of Kenya.
In 2017, the relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership by Chinese President Xi Jinping and then-Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. This milestone underscores the depth and significance of their collaboration.
Recent high-profile meetings highlight the ongoing commitment to this partnership. In October, Kenya's President William Ruto met with President Xi Jinping during the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing. Earlier, on July 22, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Nairobi, strengthening the pledge to deepen Belt and Road cooperation.
Economic ties between China and Kenya are robust, with China being one of Kenya's major trading partners and a significant source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). According to the Kenya Investment Authority, Chinese FDI in Kenya stands at $348 million, with plans to increase by 10%. These investments have been pivotal in boosting Kenya's GDP and creating thousands of jobs for Kenyan youth.
In line with China's commitment to opening its vast market, the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) recently opened an office in Changsha, the capital of China's Hunan Province. This move is expected to provide Kenyan exporters, estimated at around 600, with opportunities to showcase their products and attract investment. Additionally, KNCCI members will benefit from capacity building and visits to modern factories in China.
Trade between the two nations is diverse, with China exporting machines, textiles, and metals to Kenya, while Kenya sends mineral products, vegetable products, and animal hides to China. Daily exchanges of hundreds of products continue to drive economic growth and enhance the lives of millions in both countries.
As China and Kenya celebrate over 60 years of partnership, their mutual respect and commitment to a shared future remain unwavering. Together, they navigate a world of diverse political, social, and economic ideologies, achieving win-win cooperation without seeking validation from external parties. 🌟🤝
