Anchor raised on new leg of long voyage

For the first time Kenya has its own underwater archaeologists through a joint excavation project with China. The two countries have also worked closely together in international and regional affairs and supported each other on major issues.

As China's ambassador to Kenya, I am proud that economic cooperation and trade between our two countries has reached such a high level.

Last year, trade was worth $3.27 billion and the contracted direct investment from China to Kenya was worth $537 million. China is the largest source of foreign direct investment to Kenya and its second-largest trade partner. Numerous infrastructure projects undertaken by Chinese companies have improved the living standards of Kenyans, and locals have benefited from technical training that Chinese companies offer.

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People-to-people exchanges have also flourished. There are three Confucius Institutes in Kenya and the fourth is on the way. Four major Chinese media houses have established their African headquarters in Nairobi. China Central Television broadcasts its African news worldwide every day. Each year the Chinese government provides more than 500 scholarships and training opportunities to Kenyans.

Although I have been in Kenya for a mere three months, I have felt the sincere and deep friendship between our two peoples. I have heard many touching stories told by and about ordinary Chinese and ordinary Kenyans. When I am out and about, the Kenyans I meet are always quick with one or two Chinese words, such as ni hao (jambo; hello) or xie xie (asante; thank you). Small words, but they are powerful enough to move me to make greater endeavors to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges between our two countries.

The people of China and the government are committed to the rejuvenation of their country, and I know Kenyans and their government are just as committed to realizing their dreams, embodied in Vision 2030. Both are closely interconnected, and we are willing to join our Kenyan brothers and sisters as we work to achieve our goals in a spirit of affinity, sincerity and good faith.

As President Xi Jinping said during his recent trip to Europe, "China the lion has awoken, but it is a peaceful, amicable and civilized lion". In Kenya, too, I see a lion, one that possesses great strength and is ready to do great things, but above all comes in peace.

The timing of Premier Li's visit 600 years after Zheng He's fourth voyage is propitious, offering the hope of even greater efforts by China and Kenya to work together for a stable, prosperous and peaceful world.

The author is Chinese ambassador to Kenya. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.