President Mwai Kibaki has thanked China for giving Kenya the preferred tourist destination status.

He said the move will further promote Kenya's tourism industry which is picking up after several years of slump.

The President, at the same time, called for increased Chinese investment to boost the existing bilateral relations between Kenya and China.

Speaking when he met Chinese Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Lu Guozeng at State House Nairobi today, President Kibaki singled out the improvement of the country's road network as an area which could benefit from Chinese investment and expertise.

"We welcome your participation in the improvement of our roads. Investment opportunities in this sector exist not only in Kenya but also in the whole region particularly Sudan which has experienced decades of civil strife," the President said.

The President said Kenya appreciated China's support particularly in economic and technical fields where China has become a leading development partner.

President Kibaki also thanked China for her financial support both to the Sudan and Somali Peace Processes.

"Kenya and China have been working closely on many issues for the promotion of World peace and stability," President Kibaki observed.

On his part, the Visiting Chinese Assistant Minister who has been in the country to witness the grand signing of the Comprehensive Sudan Peace Agreement commended Kenya's role in the promotion of peace and stability in the region.

He said Kenya's leading role in the Sudan and Somalia peace processes has made the country popular not only in China but also in the international arena.

He lauded the cultural exchange between the two countries, saying it has been long and historical.