President Mwai Kibaki Thursday evening at State House, Nairobi received a donation of Kshs 200 million from the Chinese Government in contribution towards the fund for the resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons in the country.

During the occasion President Kibaki thanked the Chinese Government for extending an interest free loan of about 500 million shillings (50 million yuan) to the Government of Kenya.

The President expressed appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of Kenya for the generous donation made by the Government of the People's Republic of China noting that the assistance was a mark of strong and genuine relations that existed between the two governments.

"This demonstrates the value your government attaches to the enduring friendship and genuine relations between our two countries and peoples, based on mutual respect," said President Kibaki.

The President noted that his government was particularly grateful since the assistance was granted at a time when China was tackling serious devastations to lives, property and key infrastructure caused by a massive earthquake.

The Head of State once again conveyed on behalf of the Government and people of Kenya deep sympathies and condolences to the Government of People's Republic of China and the Chinese people over their losses.

The President added, "Our prayers go to the families of those who lost their lives and those who have suffered injuries or lost their properties and means of livelihood."

President Kibaki also commended the staff of the Chinese Embassy who contributed 23,000 US dollars (Shs 1.38m) during the official launch of fundraising in support of the IDPs on Monday this week.

"I note that during the official launch of fundraising in support of the Internally Displaced Persons on Monday this week, the staff of your Embassy contributed 23,000 US dollars."

The President said that he was deeply touched by the solidarity and goodwill of the Chinese people and the genuine support accorded to the country during the post election crisis.

"Indeed, I was deeply touched by the expression of goodwill and solidarity communicated to me by H.E. President Hu Jintao in a congratulatory message on the occasion of the signing of the national Accord and Reconciliation Act," remembered the President.

With regard to sports, President Kibaki told the Chinese delegation that Kenya looks forward to participating in the coming 29th Olympic games in Beijing later in the year.

"Kenya will showcase a strong contingent of sportsmen and women as well as an exhibition hall called "Kenya House" that will display cultural performances and other works of art at the games," added the President.

The Head of State at the same time expressed Kenya's unwavering support to China for hosting the Olympic Games and commended the Chinese Government for the elaborate preparations undertaken to make the event a success.

In attendance was the Minister for Foreign Affairs Moses Wetangula and the PS Mr. Thuita Mwangi among others