CHINA AND TANZANIA CELEBRATE 60 YEARS OF BORDER TIES
China-Tanzania relations have stood the test of time, bringing substantial investment and stable jobs to the East African country, according to Tanzanian officials and scholars.
This month marks the 60th anniversary of friendship between the two nations.
In the early 1960s, amid the geopolitical tension of the Cold War, a friendship was kindled between Tanzania, under its first President Julius Kambarage Nyerere, and China, led by Chairman Mao Zedong. A friendship treaty was signed in 1965 and is still active six decades later.
Tanzanian Foreign Minister January Makamba said both countries have travelled a long distance together, as two people and countries and still stand strong together.
Experts in the country say Chinese investments span sectors including energy, mining, and telecommunications, creating jobs and spurring growth for Tanzania’s economy.
Beyond economics, the cultural and social exchanges have enriched both societies.
Chinese language and culture have found a home in Tanzania, with the establishment of Confucius Institutes, while Tanzanian arts and Swahili language programs have begun to make their mark in China.
The two heads of state agreed to elevate the bilateral relations to the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and Tanzania enjoy ever closer exchanges across the fields.
In 1971, Tanzania firmly and consistently advocated for China’s right to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council while Tanzania has steadfastly supported the one-China principle, contributing to its broad recognition internationally.
