On Thursday in Beijing, Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, welcomed Rachel Ruto, wife of Kenyan President William Ruto, for an informal tea meeting that celebrated the deep friendship between China and Kenya. It was more than a catch-up—it was a blueprint for shared progress.
Peng opened the conversation by spotlighting the Chinese mainland’s success in targeted poverty alleviation, a sweeping campaign that has lifted millions out of extreme poverty in recent years. She then commended Rachel for her ongoing commitment to social welfare, especially her focus on women’s education and empowerment across Kenya.
"Education, sports and agriculture have become the cornerstones of our partnership," Peng noted, as she and Rachel explored ideas for student exchanges, joint sports camps and agricultural technology programs that could benefit both countries.
Rachel, who is on a state visit alongside President Ruto, detailed her initiatives to empower women entrepreneurs in Kenya. From mentorship networks to microcredit programs, her projects aim to fuel sustainable growth and gender equality on home soil.
They concluded by agreeing to share best practices, deepen cultural and people-to-people ties, and launch collaborative projects that support women, children and rural communities in both nations. It was a tea break with big ambitions—proof that small moments can spark global impacts.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
