US, China send JK messages on Union day celebrations

President  Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete has received congratulatory messages from all over the world on today’s commemoration of the 49th anniversary of the Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

In her message, Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, pledged readiness to work with President Kikwete towards achieving the AU vision.

"I am aware of the great strides that your country continues to make in the area of socio-political and economic development and its impact on stability and development in the eastern African region," she said in a statement availed to The Guardian yesterday.

The Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Quentin Bryce AC said: "I am pleased that the warm relations between our countries have continued to expand over the last year, built on shared Commonwealth values, cooperation in the United Nations and significant commercial ties, particularly in mining sector".

For his part, the President of China, Xi Jinping, said since the establishment of the Union, the Tanzanian government and people have worked hard for national development.

"Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 49 years ago, cooperation between the two sides has brought achievements to all fields. I would like to work hand in hand with Your Excellency to push forward development for mutual benefits," he said.

Cuban President Raul Castro Ruz said: “I extend warm congratulations and ratify to you to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation uniting our two countries".

In his message, India President Pranab Mukherjee said: "Our multi-sectoral engagement has expanded and deepened over the years for the mutual benefit of our people. I am confident that our relations will continue to be strengthened further in the years to come," he said.

In her message, Queen Beatrix of the Kingdom of The Netherlands, congratulated President Kikwete and wished the people of Tanzania peace and prosperity.

 Asif Ali Zardari, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, said his country has maintained very close, cordial and cooperative relations with Tanzania in diverse fields for the last 46 years, adding that he is looking forward to strengthen the mutual and beneficial relations between the two countries.

The President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa also sent his good wishes saying he hoped to continue expanding areas of cooperation for the benefit of both countries.

SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN