By engaging with Foreign Ministry leadership, Guo aims to enhance cooperation and foster positive relations with key officials during her diplomatic mission
The new Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Haiyan, commenced her diplomatic mission with a visit to the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs on Thursday, where she met with senior government officials.
Her day began with a courtesy call to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi at his offices in Nairobi. During their meeting, they discussed bilateral relations, opportunities for cooperation, and Guo’s priorities for her tenure.
“I am happy to be back to Africa and in particular Kenya since the last time I visited in 2019. The collaboration between Kenya and China has been practical and fruitful, and we are seeing growth in the development projects that received China’s support.” stated the ambassador.
The engagement with Mudavadi, who also serves as the country’s Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, sets the foundation for enhanced collaboration between the Chinese embassy and Kenya’s foreign office. The diplomat emphasized that her tenure would focus on fostering close working relations between her country and Kenya.
“I want to reaffirm China’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s development agenda, particularly through continued financial backing for projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, and enhance connectivity” noted Ambassador Guo.
She also commended Kenya for maintaining high standards of institutional independence, political stability, and good governance, stating that these factors are crucial for stable economic growth.
Prime CS Mudavadi expressed his pleasure in receiving Ambassador Guo and assured her of support from his office and the government of Kenya. He highlighted the fruitful partnerships between Kenya and China, citing the support Kenya has received in key areas of economic advancement.
“I warmly welcome Ambassador Guo to Kenya and wish her a successful and fulfilling tenure in our great nation,” said Mudavadi.
“As Kenya continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with China, this collaboration will play a significant role in driving economic growth, fostering regional development, and contributing to broader prosperity across the African continent,” added Kenya’s Foreign Minister.
He mentioned that Kenya is pleased to be among the countries that attended the FOCAC meeting last year and contributed to the resolutions aimed at deepening Africa’s ties with China, particularly in infrastructure development.
“We are glad that you are coming in to enhance the adoption of the FOCAC-plan and help not only Kenya but Africa at large move to the next economic frontier.” said Mudavadi.
To further establish communication and rapport with President William Ruto’s administration, the newly appointed ambassador also met with Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’Oei.
During their meeting, Guo and Sing’Oei discussed enhancing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between China and Kenya, while fostering mutual understanding and cooperation in various sectors.
“Karibu Kenya Balozi Guo Haiyan, the Ambassador of China to Kenya! I look forward to working with you to take Kenya-China relations to levels merited,” said the PS in his welcome message to the new representative from Beijing in Nairobi.
The Ambassador is set to lead the spring festival celebrations in Nairobi, which begin on Sunday the 19th.
