Confucius Institute of China has launched partnership with Kenyatta University where the two institutions will promote cultural and educational exchange program between the two countries.

The program that involves China's Shangdong Normal University will oversee collaborations in areas of capacity building in innovative and creative spheres of technology.

Launching the institute at Kenyatta International Conference Center on Thursday, Wang Gang, vice chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee and member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said the objective of the institute is to promote the culture of the two countries by breaking language barriers.

Wang said that with globalization, it is prudent for countries to learn the language of others in order to promote communication, understanding and further friendship.

He also noted that a similar institute had been launched at University of Nairobi which he said is successful in promoting the Chinese language and culture, saying that he is optimistic that the Kenyatta University one will also succeed.

Kenyan Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka who had accompanied Wang Gang at the launch ceremony, hailed the establishment of the institute, saying it is a step forward in strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.

Musyoka said China has proved to be a true friend and a development partner demonstrated by her continuous collaboration in infrastructural development, citing the Nairobi-Thika road and the ultra modern library at Kenyatta University among other projects.

The vice president noted that cultural exchange between Kenya and China will go along way in promoting tourism between the two countries.

Acting Vice Chancellor of Kenyatta University P. K. Wainaina said that the university will waive payment for beginners who will enroll in the Chinese language and culture courses and urged Kenyans to take advantage of the opportunity.

(Xinhua News Agency June 7, 2010)