Aasai

PRESIDENT RUTO ENGAGES FRANCE, US ON REGIONAL PEACE

President William Samoei Ruto has engaged in key discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on the ongoing peace efforts in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and broader regional security concerns.

On Monday evening, President Macron called President Ruto, who also serves as the Chair of the East African Community (EAC), to offer support for the regional initiatives aimed at addressing the hostilities in Eastern DRC. Macron reaffirmed Frances commitment to backing efforts to end the conflict in the region and expressed full support for Kenyas involvement in peace initiatives across Africa, particularly in Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan.

Additionally, President Ruto had a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during which they discussed various matters of mutual interest, especially regional peace and security. Secretary Rubio commended Kenya’s active role in promoting stability across the region and acknowledged the ongoing peace efforts in Eastern DRC. The two leaders also deliberated on the crucial support the United States could offer in bringing lasting peace and stability to the DRC.

President Ruto provided updates on the current security situations in Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia, and expressed his appreciation for the US’s commitment to continue deploying resources to support Kenyas peace missions in these regions.

Furthermore, discussions included the United Nations-led Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti, with both leaders agreeing on a unified strategy to ensure the mission effectively fulfills its mandate.

In the area of economic cooperation, President Ruto and Secretary Rubio emphasized the importance of concluding the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership agreement between Kenya and the US. This agreement aims to boost investment and promote sustainable economic growth by unlocking existing opportunities for trade and development between the two nations.

Both engagements highlight Kenya’s growing role in regional peacekeeping and international diplomacy, with continued global support for the country’s efforts in stabilizing East Africa.

President Ruto has emphasized the need for political leadership and dialogue to resolve the conflict in DRC, highlighting that peace is essential for regional stability and prosperity.

The president has advocated for an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities. pic.twitter.com/SGqQPcNe38

— Mr. Kinuthia Pius. (@Belive_Kinuthia) January 27, 2025