TANZANIA has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening its sports cooperation with China during the third 'China-Tanzania Table tennis Tournament.'

The friendship competition, held over the weekend, highlighted the strong bond between the two nations, particularly in the sports sector.

Neema Msitha, Secretary General of the National Sports Council (NSC), emphasized Tanzania's dedication to preserving and enhancing this partnership. 

"We have a strong friendship and collaboration with China, particularly in sports. We are committed to maintaining and strengthening these ties," she stated.

Neema acknowledged China’s support, particularly in providing equipment for table tennis, which has greatly promoted the sport in Tanzania and across Africa. 

She highlighted the longstanding relationship established by Tanzania’s founding father, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, and China’s Chairman Mao Zedong, which laid a solid foundation for bilateral friendship and solidarity.

Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Chen Mingjian, echoed these sentiments, noting that the tournament is part of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s initiative for 10 partnership actions to be implemented over the next three years. 

These partnerships span various sectors, including trade, health, and development.

As both countries celebrate 60 years of diplomatic cooperation this year, the ambassador emphasized the significant achievements across multiple fields, including military cooperation, political ties, trade, and cultural exchange.

The tournament not only promotes friendship but also marks another milestone in the Tanzania-China relationship, with both nations looking forward to continued collaboration and shared development goals.