Nations optimistic on future

Q+A

Liu Naiya, an expert on African studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

How do you assess Kenya's China policy?

The Kenyan government has been very friendly to China. The good relationship between the two countries' leadership was formed when both nations were fighting imperialism and colonialism in the 1960s.

The history is a good basis for today's China-Kenya relationship. And the current Kenyan president, Uhuru Kenyatta, is the son of Jomo Kenyatta, the first Kenyan president following the formation of the independent Republic of Kenya in 1964. His trip to China will enhance the two countries' friendship and political mutual trust, as well as promote further business cooperation.

In developing the relationship between China and Africa, what role can Kenya play?

Kenya is an important country in the East African region. A good relationship between China and Kenya can help China explore a bigger market in the region.

What about the future of the two countries' relationship?

We are very optimistic about the future of the two countries' relationship. There are many ways in which the two countries can develop future cooperation, such as in trade, infrastructure and tourism.

Kenyan companies have a lot of experience in dealing with their Western counterparts, so there are many things that Chinese companies can learn from their Kenyan partners.

Xu Weizhong, an expert on African studies at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations

How do you assess Kenya's China policy?

Generally speaking, the Kenyan government and the Kenyan people have a much friendlier and more positive attitude to China and Chinese companies, compared with other African countries, according to my experience in the region.

What role does China play in Kenya's development?

There are many skills that Kenya can borrow from China, such as the development of a manufacturing industry and agricultural business.

What about the future of the two countries' relationship?

Kenya is one of the more well-developed countries in Africa. Though most African countries are receiving loans from the Chinese government, Chinese companies can actually make a profit from their cooperation with Kenyan firms. That makes the country more attractive for Chinese investors.

(China Daily 08/13/2013 page10)