On his part, President Xi said the partnership between Kenya and China has led to several flagship connectivity projects, which have significantly boosted economic and social development in the country and the region, and transformed the lives of the people.

He pointed out that the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit will strengthen ties with Kenya.

“China wishes to seize the opportunities presented by this summit to further align our development strategies and elevate our comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to new heights,” he said.

Under the leadership of President Ruto, the Chinese leader said, Kenya has advanced its economic reforms.

President Ruto acknowledged China’s support for other significant sectors such as education, renewable energy, research, and ICT.

He further commended China for the RMB2 billion (Sh34 billion) loan to fund the construction of rural roads, which serve 70 per cent of the country’s population.

President Ruto said Kenya is keen on the development of the LAPSSET corridor projects, including the Lamu-Garissa-Isiolo road, which will catalyse investment in the northern and northeastern regions of Kenya and neighbouring countries.

The President said Kenya is eager to access resources from the Chinese financial market, especially the Panda Bond.

Kenya has joined the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, giving the country an opportunity to access concessional financing for infrastructure and climate change efforts.

“The membership of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank will unlock much-needed capital for development in our country,”  President Ruto said.

He appealed to China to encourage the Chinese private sector to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in the issuance of the Panda Bond.

The President commended China’s consistent leadership in promoting South-South Cooperation, saying it holds the key to unlocking Africa’s potential to harness mineral and non-mineral resources, renewable energy, and the demographic dividend.