Europe is a significant investor in Africa, Ruto says at EU Parliament

During his address at the EU Parliament, he invited European companies to explore opportunities in Africa has to offer

In Summary
  • The European Parliament is part of the legislative, or law-making, process in the EU.
  • Most proposed laws must be approved by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union to become law.
President William Ruto delivering his speech at the European Union Parliament in Strasbourg,France on November 21, 2023
President William Ruto delivering his speech at the European Union Parliament in Strasbourg,France on November 21, 2023
Image: PCS

President William Ruto on Tuesday praised European countries for their partnerships with African states.

During his key address at the European Union Parliament in Strasbourg, France,  Ruto noted that Europe is a significant investor and trade partner in Africa, which Africans can learn from. 

"By learning from Europe's successful models in education and vocational training, we can build capacity and equip our youth with the competencies required in an evolving global economy," Ruto highlighted.

Speaking on the relationship between Europe and Africa, Ruto said that through the relationship that has been fruitful over the years, the collaborative efforts have helped generate millions of jobs and enhance livelihoods across the continent.

According to Ruto, the partnership is not only a cornerstone of Africa's past and present but is also crucial for the future.

In addition, the President extended a warm invitation to European companies, institutions, and organizations to explore the many opportunities Africa has to offer.

"Join us in a collaborative endeavour to unearth and develop solutions that leverage our respective strengths, drive innovation and benefit not only Africa but also contribute to global progress," Ruto said.

The European Parliament is part of the legislative, or law-making, process in the EU.

Most proposed laws must be approved by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union to become law.

The Parliament has 705 seats and elections to fill these seats are held in all member states every five years.

The European Parliament is the only directly elected body within the EU.

The European Parliament is based in Brussels, Luxemburg and Strasbourg.

During his address, Ruto also emphasised Kenya's role as the peace and democracy anchor of the region and expounded on the country's vision on Climate action in light of the African leaders' Nairobi Declaration on Climate Change.

The President also elaborated on the economic impact of deepening trade relations between Kenya and the EU that culminates in the signing and implementation of the Economic Partnership Agreement this December.

Ruto will also hold a bilateral meeting with Roberta Metsola, President of the EU Parliament.

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