After the recent issue surrounding China Square, the Chinese Embassy in Kenya asked the Kenyan government to defend the interests of Chinese businesses and individuals.
The embassy emphasized that fostering a business-friendly atmosphere will improve bilateral connections between the two countries in a statement released on March 1st.
A favorable atmosphere would also strengthen China-Kenya for the mutual benefit of the two nations.
The Embassy urged Chinese people present to do business in Kenya in conformity with local rules and laws.
“The Embassy has taken note of the recent situation on the issue of “China Square”, and would like to reiterate that the Embassy supports deepening trade and investment cooperation between China and Kenya, and supports Chinese enterprises and Chinese citizens in conducting business in accordance with Kenyan laws and regulations,” the statement read in part.
Urging President William Ruto to intervene and create an equal and business-friendly for Chinese investors and traders.
“… we hope that the Kenyan government will protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises and Chinese citizens, and create an inclusive and friendly business environment, so as to better promote China-Kenya practical cooperation and bring benefit to our two countries and two peoples,” the statement read in part.
The embassy’s statement was echoed by China’s Director-General of the Department of African Affairs of the Foreign Ministry, Wu Peng, who called for tolerance and the creation of a non-discriminatory environment between the two nations.
“A non-arbitrary and non-discriminatory investment environment is vital to the healthy development of bilateral practical cooperation.
“I believe that through collective efforts, China-Kenya cooperation will better benefit both people,” he stated.
The special envoy added that Kenya had also benefitted from some of the Chinese-run companies that set shop in Kenyan in recent years.
China Square on Sunday, February 26, announced its indefinite closure after reviewing its business model.
The closure came days after Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria stated that he had offered Kenyatta University to buy out the lease of China Square and instead lease it to local traders.
