Beijing, China – President William Ruto has arrived in China for a four-day state visit aimed at strengthening the longstanding relationship between Kenya and China through trade, investment, and diplomatic engagements.
President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto upon arrival in Beijing, China. Photo/File
In a statement issued on Monday, April 21, State House confirmed that President Ruto would hold bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping, focusing on economic transformation, sustainable development, and global cooperation.
One of the key highlights of the visit is the Kenya-China Business Forum, which is expected to bring together over 100 companies from both nations. The forum aims to unlock new trade and investment opportunities in sectors such as digital innovation, agriculture, and industrial growth.
Also read:What Ruto Hopes to Gain From His High-Stakes Trip to China Next Week
“While in Beijing, the President will hold bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping to advance shared priorities. He will also officiate the Kenya-China Business Forum,” read the official statement.
In a move to support Kenya’s agricultural exports, Ruto will also open the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province. The facility, located in one of China’s leading tea regions, will serve as a gateway for Kenyan tea into the Asian market while empowering smallholder farmers back home.
“The Centre will enhance the visibility and market access of Kenyan tea, support smallholder farmers, and strengthen Kenya’s trade footprint in Asia,” the statement continued.
Besides economic engagements, Ruto will also address regional and global issues with Chinese leaders, including discussions on peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes Region.
Upon landing in Beijing on Tuesday, April 22, Ruto remarked, “We seek to deepen and broaden the historical, economic, and cultural ties that have defined the cordial relations between Kenya and China over the years.”
The visit underscores Kenya’s strategic efforts to position itself as a key partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative and attract more investment to propel the country’s economic development.
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