‘NIHAO China,’ a tourism campaign designed to showcase the diverse landscapes, rich and cultural treasures poised to promote tourism for both countries was launched late Monday by the Chinese Embassy, in Dar es Salaam.

Chen Mingjian, the resident ambassador, launched the campaign at an event that brought together government officials, tourism stakeholders and other stakeholders, where she said the campaign is aimed at increasing awareness of Tanzania and China as prime travel destinations.

In doing so, both countries can benefit from economic growth, strengthened cultural ties and improved bilateral relations through collaborative marketing efforts and cultural exchange programs, she stated.

"The ‘Nihao China’ campaign is a significant initiative aimed at showcasing the incredible landscapes and rich cultural reserves of both Tanzania and China. We seek to enhance awareness and appreciation for our unique offerings,” she further asserted.

She described the drive as a collaborative effort that will foster economic growth for both countries and reflect on a growing recognition of the importance of tourism, part of efforts to implement decisions reached when President Samia Suluhu Hassan met President Xi Jinping late 2022 in a state visit to China.

Dr Pindi Chana, the Natural Resources and Tourism minister, said that a total of 54,444 Chinese tourists visited Tanzania from January to September this year, eclipsing visitations recorded for all of last year.

Conversely, China has also welcomed an increasing number of Tanzanian tourists eager to explore its iconic landmarks, such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, as well as its rich museums and cultural sites, the envoy noted.

The reciprocal travel trend not only underscores the significance of cultural exchange but also serves to strengthen the bonds between the two nations, she said, while deputy minister Dunstan Kitandula urged members of the public to actively invest in the abundant opportunities available within the growing China-Tanzania tourism sector.

“Fostering partnerships with Chinese stakeholders and enhancing tourism infrastructure would not only boost Tanzania’s economy but also create employment opportunities, drive cultural exchange and position the country as a leading destination in Africa for Chinese tourists,” he stated, insisting that this is not an opportunity to be lost.

Existing bilateral ties result from efforts of the founding fathers and visionary leaders of the two countries, notably the late Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere and the late Chairman Mao Zedong, while Zanzibar revolutionary and academic Abdulrahman Mohamed Babu and diplomatic protégé Dr Salim Ahmed Salim had vital roles as well, observers noted.

“Our two friendly countries have cemented unwavering support of each other on issues of common interest at the bilateral and international level. As this publication mirrors our 60-year journey of cooperation, our diplomatic relations have contributed to major achievements and I am delighted that it cherishes some of the remarkable gains from the cooperation,” he remarked.

Bilateral ties encompass technical cooperation, infrastructure development and trade, with China being Tanzania’s largest trading partner for eight consecutive years having significant investments across various sectors, he added.