By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
Speaker Moses Wetangula has officially bid farewell to the Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Ambassador, Zhou Pingjian whose four-year tour of duty in the country came to an end.
Speaking in his office during a courtesy visit by Ambassador Zhou, Speaker Wetangula acknowledged the Ambassador’s efforts in enhancing collaboration and coordination for the mutual benefit of the two nations.
“Today, I have bid farewell to a long – term friend and a great servant who cemented the diplomatic engagements among the two countries,” said Hon. Wetangula.
“Ambassador Zhou has been a great pillar in ensuring that Kenya and China engaged on development, economic, education, technology security and other engagements in higher levels,” added Hon. Wetangula.
Ambassador Zhou further acknowledged the Speaker’s efforts in fostering the Kenya-China relationship.
“I most sincerely appreciate the opportunity to work in Kenya and the collaborations efforts that we have achieved together. I was honoured to be the first ambassador to visit your office after your election to office, I have experienced a smooth working relationship with you Mr. Speaker and I am grateful for that,” expressed Ambassador Zhou.
Ambassador Zhou offered his gratitude to the Parliament of Kenya recommending more engagement efforts the Kenya-China Parliamentary Friendship Group for exchange of knowledge and ideas among peers.
“I appreciated the positive engagements and consistent bilateral momentum among our two countries. I emphasize the need to strengthen the Kenya-China Parliamentary Friendship Group engagement is critical to foster parliamentary diplomacy,” he added.
The diplomat acknowledged that Hon. Wetangula has been the voice of China – Africa relations urging his to carry on with the call to deeper collaborations between the two nations.
“I will always cherish the friendship and what you have done to us. I will always follow the Kenya-China developments, I am leaving but my heart will remain behind,” he affirmed.
In 2017, China significantly advanced its bilateral relations with Kenya by designating them as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, representing the highest tier of diplomatic relations.
This partnership is characterized by enduring mutual respect, trust, and support. Consequently, Kenya is recognized as one of China’s key strategic partners within the African region.
The Speaker expressed gratitude towards the envoy, commending his exceptional diligence. He emphasized the longstanding and amicable relations between Kenya and China, noting that both nations have maintained resident diplomatic missions in their respective capitals since 1963.
This underscores the commitment to elevate these engagements to a higher level.
“I wish Ambassador Zhou Pingjian a great departure and warm welcome back to China and look forward to future engagements,” said Hon. Wetangula.
The Speaker also appreciated the Chinese visiting delegation to Parliament led by Prof. HAO Ping, Member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Vice-Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee and among them Members of the National People’s Congress.