Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed expectations to explore new possibilities of cooperation with China, especially on trade, investment and people-to-people exchange.
During a four-day state visit to China in April, Ruto gave an exclusive interview with China Media Group, emphasizing the historical foundation of the enduring relationship between Kenya and China.
"The solid relationship between Kenya and China dates back 60 years, maybe more. In fact, 600 years is when these people-to-people engagements began with the silk trade. But today I have come to China as part of the growing and deepening relationship between our two countries and expanded opportunities for engagement. Today, we have 400 Chinese companies operating in Kenya in different fields, in construction, investment, tourism and many other fields. And therefore, I have come here to explore additional possibilities of engagement, especially on matters to do with trade and investment, on matters to do with the people-to-people relationship," said the president.
Ruto highlighted several key elements driving the relationship between Kenya and China.
"I think [there are] three things, largely. There is already existing relationship between Kenya and China. The support of China in the building of public infrastructure. The standard gauge railway, for example, 600 kilometers of standard gauge railway has been delivered. Thousands of kilometers of roads have been delivered. We now have the expressway, (which) has been delivered. The port of Lamu has been built with the support of Chinese investors and Chinese support. Number 2 is the work ethic that is shared between China and Kenya, and importantly and instructively, is the people-to-people relationship, the warm relationship between our two nations is what is inspiring the positive relationship between China and Kenya," he said.
Kenyan president looks to expand cooperation opportunities with China
Kenyan president looks to expand cooperation opportunities with China
