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Dressed in their trademark regalia, Chinese Shaolin Monks electrified the mood on Monday night when they staged a thrilling performance in the Kenyan capital Nairobi.
Revelers defied the August chill to watch eleven young Shaolin monks swing into action during the opening ceremony of the Zhengzhou Week at a luxury hotel on the outskirts of Nairobi.
Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Liu Xianfa and senior officials from the East African nation graced the colorful Kungfu show which elevated cultural interaction between the two nations to new levels.
In his opening remarks, the Chinese envoy said bilateral cooperation with Kenya in many spheres has remained solid.
"Ever since the establishment of our diplomatic ties in 1963, China-Kenya relationship has been developing in leaps and bounds," Liu told the audience at Kungfu show.
The Zhengzhou municipal government of Henan province and China Radio International Africa Headquarters organized the captivating Kungfu performance by Shaolin Monks.
A six-year-old monk won the hearts of the audience as he showcased outstanding skills in martial arts.
Dignitaries agreed the staging of Kungfu show in Kenya was timely as cultural interaction with the Asian giant gain foothold.
"Culture is the bridge for enhancing mutual understanding and trust between nations. China and Kenya share similar cultures that emphasize the importance of peace, harmony and friendliness," said the Chinese ambassador.
He added the Zhengzhou Week will help showcase China's rich culture and economic miracle to Kenyans.
The staging of a Kungfu show in Kenya was not only historical but was also a confirmation of blossoming ties with China.
Kenyan officials hailed the martial arts' prowess of Shaolin Monks and underscored the role of the ancient practice to promote cultural diplomacy.
"The Zhengzhou Week in Nairobi will showcase cultural treasures from China. Kenyans have gradually appreciated Chinese culture as our cooperation with the country deepens," said the Chairman, Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Foreign Affairs, Ndung'u Gethenji.
Both Kenyan and Chinese revelers graced the electrifying Kungfu show by Shaolin monks.
The monks' agility on stage was impressive while their endurance in the face of back breaking gymnastics shocked the audience.
Kenyan revelers were captivated by Shaolin monks' spectacular performance that illuminated the best aspects of martial arts.
Like their counterparts in other Sub-Saharan Africa, Kenyans have learnt about Kungfu through movies and print media. Kungfu legends including Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan are well known in Kenya.
Likewise, a segment of Kenyan population that is educated and widely traveled has good knowledge of Shaolin monks who embodies the richness and authenticity of Chinese culture.
The CEO of Kenya ICT Authority Victor Kyalo noted that martial arts have gained traction globally owing to their therapeutic benefits.
"The young generation of Kenyans is accustomed to Kungfu and has appreciated its physical and spiritual benefits. We are privileged to host Shaolin Monks who are the custodians of a rich and rewarding oriental practice," Kyalo told Xinhua.
