October 25, Beijing—In a significant move to strengthen ties, Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Kenyan President William Ruto on Wednesday during Ruto’s state visit to China. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation between the two countries and working together towards modernization.
Premier Li noted the growing relationship between China and Kenya, highlighting achievements that have improved the lives of people in both nations. “China is ready to work with Kenya to enrich our partnership and expand cooperation in all areas,” Li stated.
The leaders discussed advancing the Belt and Road Initiative, a global development strategy involving infrastructure development and investments around the world. They agreed to promote major projects in infrastructure, finance, digital economy, green energy, agricultural science, and the blue economy.
Li expressed China’s willingness to import more high-quality products from Kenya, aiming for a balanced trade relationship. He also emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges, tourism, and media cooperation to strengthen people-to-people connections.
Addressing global challenges, Li called for unity between China and African countries as significant forces in the Global South. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to work with Kenya and other African nations to implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
President Ruto expressed Kenya’s commitment to the one-China principle, recognizing Taiwan as an inalienable part of China’s territory. He showed enthusiasm for aligning Kenya’s development strategies with China’s under the Belt and Road Initiative.
“Kenya appreciates China’s important role in international affairs,” Ruto said. He emphasized the desire to enhance cooperation on multilateral platforms like the United Nations, promoting unity among Global South countries and building a brighter future for China-Africa relations.
