Top Chinese political advisor starts visit to Kenya

Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, arrived here Monday on an official good-will visit as guest of Kenyan government.

In a written statement delivered upon arrival at the airport, Jia said Kenya is an important country in East Africa and since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1963, China-Kenya relations have enjoyed sound growth.

"Recent years have seen our two countries increasing exchanges and cooperation in the fields of political affairs, economy and culture and strengthening consultation on international issues, and we have forged a friendly and cooperative relationship of long- term stability and mutual benefit," said Jia.

He said he looks forward to exchanging views with Kenyan leaders on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest and meeting community leaders in Kenya.

"I am confident that this visit will serve to strengthen our traditional friendship, expand friendly cooperation and promote common development of our two countries," Jia said.

Kenya is the last leg of Jia's visit to four African countries, which has already taken him to Tunisia, Ghana and Zimbabwe.