MINISTER for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, has urged African nations to view China-Tanzania partnership as a blueprint for development, highlighting it as the embodiment of a shared vision for transformation, prosperity and modernisation.

He shared the insights in Dar es Salaam at the weekend during the Chinese New Year reception, emphasising the partnership’s role as a powerful driver of regional progress and shared prosperity.

Kombo elaborated that Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Samia Suluhu Hassan share a unified vision focused on driving transformation, fostering prosperity, and advancing modernisation through key initiatives. Their shared priorities reflect a commitment to uplifting citizens’ lives and building sustainable development models that can inspire other nations.

"The presidents’ commitment to improving citizens’ lives and establishing sustainable development models serves as   powerful example. I urge other nations to take inspiration from this partnership and adopt similar approaches for meaningful growth and progress," he said.

The minister also pointed to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project as one of the modernisation efforts, aligning closely with President Xi’s development theories.

This infrastructure initiative, he noted, exemplifies how modernisation drives economic growth and enhances regional connectivity.

Chen Mingjian, Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, emphasised the resilience of the China-Tanzania friendship, which marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Tanzania.

"China continues to uphold its status as Tanzania’s largest trading partner and source of investment while Tanzania will again be the guest of honour at the China International Import Expo. The mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries has yielded impressive outcomes," she said.

The envoy also noted that Chinese-funded enterprises in Tanzania have made substantial progress and contributed to the Belt and Road Initiative. Teachers and students coming to Tanzania have strengthened cultural exchange between the nations.

"As we celebrate this New Year, I hope prosperity will flourish for both China and Tanzania, preserving the traditional friendship between our two nations for future generations," she said.

The Spring Festival, celebrated according to Chinese tradition, marks the beginning of the New Year and is the oldest and most significant traditional festival in China. It is an important occasion for bidding farewell to the old year, welcoming the new, and for family reunions.