Kenya, China strengthen bilateral ties with new cooperation framework

During the visit, President Ruto and President Xi held extensive bilateral talks in a cordial and constructive atmosphere. The two leaders reaffirmed their strong ties and announced a significant step forward—the decision to build a China-Kenya Community with a Shared Future for the New Era.

Their discussions covered a wide range of issues, including the evolving China-Kenya relationship, China-Africa cooperation, and key international and regional developments.

The talks addressed major topics such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the practice of multilateralism, global trade tensions, the rights and interests of the Global South, and collaboration in trade, investment, infrastructure development, science and technology, education, culture, and tourism.

As a highlight of the visit, the two leaders witnessed the signing of 20 cooperation agreements. These documents outlined joint efforts in promoting the Belt and Road Initiative, enhancing educational and training opportunities, deepening cultural and people-to-people ties, advancing economic and trade partnerships, and strengthening collaboration in media and communications.

To mark the occasion, President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan hosted a formal banquet in honour of President Ruto and his delegation.

In a joint statement, the two countries emphasized their shared commitment to multilateralism and the rules-based international order. They voiced support for strengthening the United Nations Office at Nairobi, envisioning it as a key hub for multilateral engagement on global affairs.

Both sides reiterated their intention to promote the interests and representation of the Global South within the international system. They committed to upholding the core principles of the World Trade Organization and firmly opposed the use of unilateral sanctions, economic decoupling, tariff barriers, and technological blockades as tools of global hegemony.

China pledged to continue standing with Kenya and other developing nations to confront global challenges, defend legitimate interests, uphold fair and equitable trade practices, and advance justice in the international arena.