Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan has reiterated her nation’s commitment to deepen ties, focusing on the development and improvement of people’s livelihoods.

Haiyan said China will continuously create new opportunities in its economic and social development not only for Kenya but also for Africa at large.

 While hailing the Chinese economy, which has increased in the last few years, Haiyan pledged support in various areas echoing the ‘win-win’ approach to global development championed by President Xi Jinping.

 “The Chinese economy has rebounded and improved, with a gross domestic product exceeding 130 trillion yuan, grain production exceeding 1.4 trillion catties, and the annual production of new energy vehicles surpassing 10 million vehicles for the first time,” she stated.

 Haiyan was speaking at the United Nations Office in Nairobi (Unon) in Gigiri in a prelude to the Chinese New Year gala.

 Ambassador Haiyan noted that the Spring Festival not only displays the excellence of traditional Chinese culture but also offers inspiration for addressing contemporary global challenges.

 “The Spring Festival is regarded as the oldest, grandest, and most culturally significant traditional festival in China,” said Haiyan.

Haiyan noted that the Spring Festival embodies the Chinese nation’s longing for peace and harmony, as well as the pursuit of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

She remarked that the event has received widespread recognition from people around the globe.

“Approximately 20 countries have designated the Spring Festival as a public holiday, and about one fifth of the world’s population celebrates it in various ways,” she noted.

Speaking at the event, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the government’s dedication to building a deeper partnership with China noting that the two Countries have huge history of cooperation and unity.

“We will continue strengthening the ties between our two nations through various initiatives, especially in trade and cultural exchanges,” said Miano.

Miano also highlighted the importance of promoting Chinese culture within Kenya, encouraging the Chinese community to visit the country’s natural wonders, including national parks, museums, and other tourist attractions.

 “As we gather here tonight, let us take a moment to appreciate the bonds of friendship and unity that bring us together. Let us embrace the values of kindness, respect, and understanding that are at the core of our traditions,” Miano added.

In 2023, the Spring Festival was declared a UN holiday, and in 2024, the social practices of the Chinese people in celebration of the New Year were inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

 United Nations Office in Nairobi Director-General Zainab Hawa Bangura, delivered a message on behalf of United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, expressing hope that the Chinese Lunar New Year would prompt the world to reflect on the necessity of increased compassion towards one another.

 She wished that the year would bring peace, joy, good health and prosperity to all humanity.

“The Snake in the Chinese Zodiac symbolises intuition and strategy, while the wood element represents growth and planning,” Bangura remarked.

Kenya Broadcasting Corporation Managing Director Agnes Kalekye, who attended the event, extended special wishes to the Chinese people.