Kenyan President William Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to deepening economic cooperation with China during his third official visit to Beijing since taking office in 2022. The five-day diplomatic mission highlights Nairobi’s pivot towards the East as the world grapples with the consequences of rising trade tensions, primarily driven by U.S. protectionist policies.

On Thursday, Ruto held bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships in the face of what he described as a rapidly shifting global trade landscape. “This trade war, instigated by protectionist policies from Washington, threatens to dismantle the foundations of global economic cooperation,” Ruto said during a joint press briefing.

Referring to the growing influence of the East, Ruto added, “China has consistently demonstrated its willingness to invest in African development without imposing unrealistic conditions. This is the kind of partnership Africa needs.”

The visit comes amid growing frustration among developing nations regarding the global economic imbalance and rigid trade barriers implemented under the Trump administration’s new wave of tariffs. Kenya, seeking to shield its economy from the fallout, is positioning itself as a key gateway for Chinese investment in East Africa.

China remains Kenya’s largest bilateral lender and has funded numerous infrastructure projects in the country, including railways, roads, and energy facilities. Ruto’s trip includes meetings with Chinese business leaders and site visits to infrastructure projects funded under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Ruto also called for a reimagined multilateral trade system that acknowledges the economic aspirations of the Global South. “The world cannot thrive when a few dictate the terms of trade. We must embrace a system that reflects fairness, equity, and mutual prosperity,” he asserted.

The Kenyan delegation includes key cabinet ministers from trade, transport, and finance sectors, signaling the government’s strategic intent to secure further Chinese investment and cooperation.

As the trade standoff between the U.S. and several global economies intensifies, Kenya’s pivot to China may offer the country a strategic buffer and enhanced influence in regional economic affairs.

This high-profile visit is expected to yield multiple agreements focused on technology transfer, trade facilitation, and infrastructure development—further anchoring Kenya’s position as a pivotal partner in China’s long-term Africa strategy.