The County Government of Mombasa has formalised a framework for cooperation with the people of Shanxi Province of China through a memorandum of understanding that the Deputy Governor Dr William Kingi signed on behalf of his boss, Governor Hassan Ali Joho.
Shanxi Province was represented by Deputy Director of the Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs office of - Shanxi Province, Qin Jie.
"Already we have seen the fruits of greater cooperation with China lead to tremendous development in trade and infrastructure which has transformed the lives of millions," said Kingi on Friday during the signing of the MoU.
The Port of Mombasa is the principle link for international trade in the region. With plans to open the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone, Kingi said Mombasa can not only learn from China but also attract Chinese investment into the City.
"Our Mombasa Vision 2035 shall also benefit immensely from Chinese knowledge and technology as we strive to modernise the city. It is also important to build bridges between our two peoples through cultural exchanges."
With China set to become the biggest trading nation of all time once again, Kingi indicated they aspire to exchange traditional knowledge systems like; language, health and hygiene practices, food and cooking practices, sports and healthy living, music and the creative arts.
"With these MoUs, we look forward to a fruitful and mutually beneficial relationship with our new friends," he said.