"Global instability and uncertainty are on the rise. The world is, again, at a critical juncture," Xue Bing stated, adding, "We need to jointly show the historical responsibilities and advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and the universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation. China is ready to work with Africa to keep in mind the history and forge ahead together and jointly uphold the basic rules of the international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN charter."
The Chinese envoy affirmed China's commitment to working with African countries and other developing nations to oppose "unilateralism and protectionism" and to raise the voice and representation of the Global South, especially Africa, in global governance systems. He emphasised the need to implement the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit held last year and to further strengthen cooperation through foreign affairs authorities.
The backdrop to these discussions is the rising global trade tensions, particularly those triggered by tariffs imposed by the United States under the Trump administration.
These tariffs have strained international trade relations and prompted concerns about the stability of the global economic order, pushing countries like Kenya to seek stronger alliances and explore alternative partnerships, officials say.
Kenya's backing of closer ties with China, as articulated by Ndungu, underscores a growing sentiment among African nations to diversify their diplomatic and economic relationships in the face of increasing protectionism from traditional Western partners.
The emphasis on retraining diplomats suggests a recognition of the need for a more assertive and strategic approach to international relations in a multipolar world order where China's influence continues to expand, analysts said.