China Reaffirms Security and Development Partnership with Kenya at PLA 99th Anniversary Fete in Nairobi
He noted that the Kenya-China defence partnership continues to grow through military diplomacy, training and capacity building, equipment support, peace support operations and humanitarian assistance.
Photo: Courtesy.
By Lilian Chemutai
The People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening its security, defence and development partnership with Kenya, pledging to work jointly with Nairobi to promote regional stability, peace and shared prosperity.
Speaking during celebrations to mark the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) held in Nairobi on Tuesday, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said Beijing values Kenya as a strategic partner in East Africa and remains ready to expand cooperation under the Global Security Initiative (GSI).
“China will work with Kenya and all peace-loving countries and peoples around the world to act on the Global Security Initiative, jointly safeguard peace, promote development, and deepen cooperation,” Ambassador Guo said.
She added, “Together, we will create a safer, more prosperous and better future and make new and greater contributions to building a community with a shared future for humanity.”
The envoy lauded Kenya’s role in regional peace initiatives, its contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions, counter-terrorism operations and humanitarian efforts, noting that Nairobi has consistently demonstrated leadership in championing stability in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region.
Ambassador Guo noted that this year marks the fourth anniversary of the Global Security Initiative, a framework proposed by China that calls for respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, adherence to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue, and coordinated responses to both traditional and non-traditional security threats.
“This year marks the 4th anniversary of the Global Security Initiative. The GSI underscores a call for respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, observance of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, earnest consideration of the legitimate security concerns of all countries, peaceful resolution of differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation,” she said.
She reiterated Beijing’s support for Africa’s peace agenda, including the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the “Silencing the Guns” initiative, adding that China will continue to support African countries in strengthening capacities in peacekeeping, maritime security, disaster response, public health and counter-terrorism.
Chinese Embassy Defence Attaché Senior Colonel Zhao Peng said the PLA has over the past 99 years transformed into a modern, world-class force while remaining anchored on its mission to safeguard global peace.
“As the world navigates an era of profound change, the PLA will continue to work alongside the armed forces of other nations to uphold peace, promote development, and build a community with a shared future for humanity,” Col. Zhao said. “This is PLA’s mission, its identity, and its enduring promise to the world.”
Representing Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya, Vice Chief of the Defence Forces Lieutenant General John Omenda congratulated the PLA on its anniversary and reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to its long-standing defence ties with China.
He noted that the Kenya-China defence partnership continues to grow through military diplomacy, training and capacity building, equipment support, peace support operations and humanitarian assistance.
“The Ministry of Defence of Kenya remains committed to deepening this partnership in a manner that is mutually beneficial and responsive to our respective national defence priorities,” Lt. Gen. Omenda said.
The event was attended by senior Kenya Defence Forces officers, diplomats, defence attachés and government officials, underscoring the cordial ties between Nairobi and Beijing.
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