During the opening ceremony, Kenya's vice-president Kalonzo Musyoka delivered a speech. He said the forum was a milestone in the history of China-Africa relations. In response to some long-term criticism of China-Africa relations, he said: "Why is China taking so much interest in Africa? It's because China is a true friend to Africa." Musyoka was warmly welcomed by Wang Zhizhen, the vice-chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Consultative Conference (CPPCC). The Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Liu Guangyuan also attended the ceremony. [Photo by Feng Xin/chinadaily.com.cn]