National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula has bid farewell to H.E. Ambassador Zhou Pingjian, the outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, following a successful four-year tenure.

The farewell took place during a courtesy visit by Ambassador Zhou to Wetang’ula’s on Wednesday evening at Parliament Buildings.

Speaker Wetang’ula expressed deep appreciation for Ambassador Zhou’s significant contributions in strengthening bilateral ties between Kenya and China.

He emphasized the ambassador's role in fostering cooperation across various sectors, including development, economic growth, education, technology, and security.

“Today, I bid farewell to a long-time friend and a dedicated diplomat who has played a pivotal role in cementing the strong diplomatic relations between our two countries,” Speaker Wetang’ula said.

He added that Ambassador Zhou has been instrumental in making Kenya-China collaborations flourish.

Ambassador Zhou reciprocated the Speaker’s warm sentiments, acknowledging Wetang’ula’s leadership in enhancing Kenya-China relations.

"I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve in Kenya and for the strong working relationship we have shared,” said Ambassador Zhou.

“I had the honor of being the first ambassador to visit your office after your election, and I’ve greatly appreciated the smooth collaboration we’ve enjoyed.” he said.

The ambassador also expressed his gratitude towards the Kenyan Parliament, urging further efforts to strengthen the Kenya-China Parliamentary Friendship Group as a platform for exchange of knowledge and ideas.

"Our positive engagements have generated significant momentum in our bilateral relations. I believe strengthening parliamentary diplomacy will continue to foster stronger ties between our nations,” he added.

Ambassador Zhou praised Speaker Wetang’ula’s role as a leading voice for China-Africa relations and urged him to continue advocating for deeper cooperation between Kenya and China.

“I will always cherish the friendship we have built, and while I am leaving, my heart will remain with Kenya,” he remarked.

The two nations have enjoyed robust diplomatic relations since Kenya and China elevated their partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2017, a distinction that represents the highest level of bilateral engagement. As a result, Kenya is considered one of China’s key strategic partners in Africa.

Speaker Wetang’ula thanked Ambassador Zhou for his dedicated service and assured him that the strong ties between Kenya and China will continue to grow.

He emphasized the long-standing diplomatic relationship between the two countries, which dates back to 1963, when both nations established resident missions in their respective capitals.

"I wish Ambassador Zhou Pingjian a smooth departure and a warm welcome back to China, and I look forward to continued collaboration in the future,” said the Speaker

The Speaker also extended his appreciation to the Chinese delegation visiting the Kenyan Parliament, led by Prof. Hao Ping, a Member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress and Vice-Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee.

He urged the Kenya China Parliamentary Friendship Group to make good their pledge to expand their market for Kenyan products so as to boost various sectors for instance agriculture which has faced some difficulties.

“There is no place in Africa where you will not find Chinese footprints, I acknowledge the much China has done for Kenya but we should now focus on trade and how Kenyan products can access the Chinese market”, noted Hon. Wetang’ula.

The delegation included several Members of the National People’s Congress while the Kenyan delegation comprised Hon. (Dr.) Rachel Nyamai (Kitui South), Hon. Dr. Makali Mulu (Kitui Central), Hon. Kakai Bissau (Kiminini) and Hon. Julius Sunkuli (Kilgoris).