President William Ruto on Monday met his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping after arriving in China for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit.
According to the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hua Chunying, the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues.
They acknowledged the role both countries have played in growing each other's economies.
"China and Kenya have jointly undertaken a large number of flagship connectivity projects. They have become strong drivers of local economic and social development and delivered tangibly for the people in both countries.
"China is ready to explore with Kenya more ways to form synergy between the two countries’ development strategies, and further elevate the China-Kenya comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership," Chunying said in a statement.
Before his departure, State House said one of Ruto's top priorities was a meeting with the Chinese President to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new areas of cooperation.
President Ruto arrived in China on Monday.
He was accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Ruto is among the heads of state who will attend the high-level summit that will focus on improving the China-Africa partnership.
The summit will take place in Beijing from September 4-6, 2024.
FOCAC is an official forum between China and all states in Africa except the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Ruto is expected to pursue multi-million-dollar agreements with China, focusing on infrastructure and trade.
Raila, on the other hand, is expected to meet with African leaders and urge them to support his bid for the African Union Commission chairperson seat.
Ruto will also attend the China-Africa Entrepreneurs Conference, where he will advocate for increased Chinese investment in Kenya's infrastructure, healthcare, and technology sectors.
Kenya expects to reach agreements on infrastructure development, such as the construction of rural roads, the Nairobi Intelligent Transportation System, and the Bosto Dam Water Supply Project.
