Xi said that China and Kenya, both of which are important nations of the Global South, should take concrete actions to firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core, and promote global governance that is based on extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefit.

He also called on the two countries to practice true multilateralism and advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, thereby advancing the world toward a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress.

Xi also reiterated that trade and tariff wars have no winners, and he said that China is not a troublemaker, but will not flinch when trouble comes its way.

China is ready to work with countries around the world to address various challenges through solidarity and cooperation, safeguard their own legitimate rights and interests, uphold international trade rules, and maintain international fairness and justice, Xi said.

Ruto's visit is the first state visit to China by an African head of state since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in September last year.

Xi told the Kenyan president that China is willing to work together with African countries, including Kenya, to transform the outcomes of the FOCAC summit into more early fruit to better benefit the African people.

Ruto described the Kenya-China relationship as being "deeply rooted in a historic, resilient and all-weather friendship that has endured the test of time".

His country is willing to work hand in hand with China to fully align their economic and social development strategies, strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure construction and technology, and enhance exchanges in education, culture and tourism, he said.

Noting that trade wars disrupt existing international rules and order, Ruto said that Kenya appreciates China for its role as a stabilizing force in the current turbulent situation, and for its efforts in safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Global South countries.

Kenya is willing to work with China to uphold and practice multilateralism, he added.

mojingxi@chinadaily.com.cn