Ruto Explains Why Kenya is Working with China
President William Ruto has come out to defend Kenya’s growing relationship with China, especially after the United States raised concerns over the partnership.
Although China is a key trading partner for the U.S., it’s also one of its biggest global competitors. The two countries often clash, with the U.S. accusing China of unfair and harmful trade practices.
However, President Ruto said Kenya’s partnership with China is rooted in the principle of multilateralism—where many countries work together to achieve shared goals.
He emphasized that multilateralism offers fairer opportunities for all nations, especially when it comes to trade.
Speaking in an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), Ruto explained that Kenya supports multilateral systems over unilateral decisions made by individual countries.
“We believe multilateralism offers better protections and creates a level playing field for international trade,” he said.
He added that globalization has made it necessary for countries to work together because no single nation—or even a single company—can survive on its own in the modern world.
“The reality today is that global trade is a must. Only through multilateral cooperation can we ensure fair and sustainable trade for everyone,” he said.
President Ruto also urged the United States to be more understanding and accepting of Kenya’s decision to partner with China.
He pointed out that no single country, not even the U.S., has all the answers to global problems. He insisted that solutions should benefit all countries involved—not just one side.
“What’s good for America should also be good for Kenya. If only one side wins, everyone eventually loses. A win-win approach is the only way forward,” Ruto stated.
These remarks come shortly after U.S. Senator Jim Risch, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, criticized Kenya’s increasing closeness with China. He suggested that it’s time for the U.S. to rethink its relationship with Kenya.
Senator Risch expressed concern over President Ruto’s recent trip to China and his comments made during the visit.
At one point, Ruto described Kenya and China as “co-architects of a new world order.” This, according to the senator, showed not just cooperation but strong alignment with China.
He made these comments during a Senate hearing focused on East Africa and the Horn of Africa on Tuesday, May 13. “When the President of Kenya says Kenya and China are building a new world order together, it signals more than just economic cooperation. It hints at a shift in global loyalty,” said Risch.
During his visit to Beijing, President Ruto signed agreements worth Ksh100 billion. These deals are set to boost development in several key sectors of Kenya’s economy, further strengthening the country’s partnership with China.
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