Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his commitment to strengthening ties with China during his recent visit to Beijing, emphasizing the importance of learning from China’s development model. Ruto’s shift towards closer relations with China comes amidst a backdrop of escalating trade tensions between the United States and China. The President acknowledged China’s support for various sectors in Kenya, including health, education, and disaster relief, as well as the upcoming construction of a new Ministry of Foreign Affairs complex.

Ruto’s visit underscores Kenya’s participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with significant Chinese investment in Kenyan infrastructure projects. This strategic partnership aims to enhance connectivity between Africa, Asia, and Europe through large-scale infrastructure developments. Ruto’s remarks at Peking University criticizing the current world order and highlighting the impact of U.S. tariffs on global trade further emphasize the evolving dynamics in international relations.

The meeting between Ruto and Chinese leader Xi Jinping resulted in the signing of agreements spanning security, technology, economics, and transportation, signaling a deepening of bilateral cooperation between the two nations. As African countries navigate the uncertainties posed by trade disputes, Kenya’s diplomatic maneuvers reflect a strategic realignment towards strengthening ties with China amid shifting global trade dynamics.