A collage of President William Ruto and newly appointed Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi./FILE
President William Samoei Ruto has sent a congratulatory message to Sanae Takaichi on her election as the 104th Japanese Prime Minister, pledging Kenya’s commitment to strengthening the long-standing partnership between Nairobi and Tokyo.
In his message of goodwill, Ruto hailed PM Takaichi’s ascension to Japan’s highest office as a reflection of the trust and confidence placed in her leadership by the Japanese people.
“Your victory is a testament to the confidence reposed in your vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress and prosperity of the Japanese people,” Ruto said.
The Head of State reaffirmed Kenya’s deep appreciation for Japan’s continued development cooperation, which he noted has contributed significantly to Kenya’s national priorities across diverse sectors.
“Kenya deeply values the generous development cooperation that Japan continues to extend across our key areas of focus. We are equally gratified by our shared determination to strengthen collaboration, bilaterally and multilaterally, in pursuit of peace, stability, and sustainable development,” Ruto added.
The President further recalled his fruitful discussions with Japan’s former PM during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), held earlier this year.
He said the jointly endorsed TICAD 9 Declaration reaffirmed both nations’ resolve to elevate their relations to new heights.
According to Ruto, Kenya is eager to deepen cooperation with Japan in tackling emerging global challenges and in reinforcing the international system to advance shared aspirations for inclusive growth and prosperity.
“My participation in TICAD 9 built upon the outcomes of my earlier visit to Japan in February 2024, which focused on advancing private sector-led initiatives for mutual benefit,” the President noted.
He extended an invitation to Prime Minister Takaichi to visit Kenya at a mutually convenient time, saying such a visit would be an honour and a significant step toward charting a renewed and ambitious future for the Kenya–Japan partnership.
“Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration,” Ruto said.
