Kenya: Pres Ruto, US Secretary of State Rubio push for trade deal, regional peace

NAIROBI, Jan 28 (NNN-KBC) — President William Ruto has revealed details of a telephone conversation with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where the two leaders addressed key issues of mutual interest, including trade, regional security and peace initiatives in Africa and beyond.

In a statement shared on his official X page, Ruto announced that discussions centred around finalizing the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) agreement.

The agreement aims to boost investment between Kenya and the United States while promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth by unlocking existing economic opportunities.

The leaders also delved into global security concerns, particularly the United Nations-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti.

Ruto and Rubio agreed on a joint strategy to ensure the mission stabilises the Caribbean nation.

On matters of regional peace and security, Rubio commended Kenya’s efforts to promote stability in the region.

The conversation touched on the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with Ruto emphasizing the need for additional support from the United States to address the humanitarian and security challenges in the area.

Ruto also provided updates on the security situation in Sudan, South Sudan and Somalia, where Kenya has been actively involved in peace-building efforts.

He expressed gratitude for the United States’ commitment to deploying its resources and capabilities to support Kenya’s peace missions in the region. — NNN-KBC

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