Wu Peng, the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, has called for a non-discriminatory environment for businesses in Kenya and China.
The Chinese envoy emphasized the importance of entrepreneurs being given a warm welcome to set up their businesses in both countries to boost trade.
He addressed the controversy over China Square, a mall located in Unicity and owned by a Chinese national, Lei Cheng, stating that a non-arbitrary and non-discriminatory investment environment is critical to the healthy development of bilateral practical collaboration.
Peng further added that China is open to foreign investors and that a number of chain stores in China are run by non-residents.
He welcomed more foreign investors to come and establish their businesses in China.
He expressed his belief that through collective efforts, China-Kenya cooperation will better benefit both nations.
The controversy over China Square arose when Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria suggested that the mall should be leased out to local traders to boost products made in Kenya.
Consequently, the mall, which is owned by Kenyatta University, was temporarily closed.
Despite the controversy, Peng’s response reaffirmed China’s commitment to a non-discriminatory business environment and its willingness to work with Kenya to further develop bilateral trade and cooperation.
