Kenyan President William Ruto underscored the deepening partnership between China and Kenya during an exclusive interview with CMG's Wang Guan in Beijing, while delivering a sharp critique of U.S.-led protectionist trade policies that he warned threaten global economic stability.
Speaking on the sidelines of his April 22-26 state visit, Ruto described the 61-year bilateral relationship as "wholesome" and mutually transformative. The visit saw both nations elevate ties to a "China-Kenya community with a shared future for the new era," building on infrastructure projects like the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway that have reshaped Kenya's economic landscape.
"The globalization of trade is an existential imperative," Ruto asserted, positioning multilateral cooperation as vital for developing nations. His comments come amid growing tensions between major economies over tariffs and supply chain controls.
The Kenyan leader highlighted how Chinese collaboration has enabled critical developments in energy and transportation, noting: "What China has done is to enable Kenya to unlock its potential." Over 50 completed projects span roads, ports, and green energy installations.
Analysts view Ruto's remarks as reinforcing Africa's strategic balancing act between global powers. With China maintaining its position as Africa's largest trading partner since 2009, Kenya's experience exemplifies how developing nations are leveraging international partnerships to drive industrialization agendas.
