Mudavadi lauds China's role in Kenya's social, economic transformation

Kenya and China have agreed to build on a shared future in the new era, as they mark 60 years of diplomatic relations.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi met China's Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi at Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on Friday, during his three-day official visit to the country.

He left the country on January 24, accompanied by senior government officials including Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs, Aurelia Rono and Kenya's Ambassador to China, Amb. Willy Bett.

The visit aimed to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

Mudavadi said the discussions centered on bilateral and multilateral issues of mutual interest, and the achievements of the bilateral ties since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1964.

"China is a reliable and strategic partner for Kenya, and we appreciate its contribution to our social and economic transformation," Mudavadi said in a statement.

He praised China for its invaluable support toward Kenya's national development priorities, especially in roads and rail transport, green energy, and ICT.

The two ministers also deliberated on global issues, including the need for an equal and orderly multipolar world, reform of the international financial architecture, UN Security Council reforms, and resolution of peace and security challenges around the world.

The leaders agreed to uphold the universal values of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom, and oppose interference in the internal affairs of other countries under the banner of "democracy and human rights."