President William Ruto and First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto have arrived in Beijing, China, marking the beginning of a four-day state visit at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In a brief statement after landing in Beijing on Tuesday, April 22, Ruto said the trip seeks to deepen Kenya's ties with China.
"Arrived in Beijing, China, for the four-day State Visit at the invitation of His Excellency President Xi Jinping.
"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," he said.
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In a statement on Monday, April 21, State House said that during his time in Beijing, Ruto will engage in bilateral discussions with Jinping.
He is also expected to officiate the Kenya-China Business Forum, a platform expected to bring together over 100 companies from both countries to discuss potential investment opportunities.
"While in Beijing, the President will hold bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping to advance shared priorities in economic transformation, sustainable development, and global cooperation.
"He will also officiate the Kenya-China Business Forum, bringing together over 100 companies from both countries to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, digital innovation, and industrial growth," the statement read.
Additionally, Ruto is expected to open the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province, a move seen as a way to empower smallholder farmers and expand Kenya’s market presence in Asia.
"As part of efforts to boost Kenya’s agricultural exports, he will inaugurate the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province. Situated in one of China’s key tea regions, 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 further read.
In addition to bilateral and economic engagements, Ruto will hold discussions with Chinese leadership on a broader range of global and regional issues.
“The President will further engage with the Chinese leadership on global and regional matters, advocating for enhanced multilateral cooperation. Discussions will also address peace and security in the Greater Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes Region," the statement concluded.
