Kenya to deepen trade relations with Russia – Ruto

Ruto said the two countries will sign a trade pact that will give businesses the necessary impetus

In Summary
  • Kenya will deepen its relations with Russia to increase trade volumes.
  • Africa can bring to the table rich ideas, suggestions and experiences that would serve the globe wel.
Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov with President William Ruto at the State House on May 29, 2023.
Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov with President William Ruto at the State House on May 29, 2023.
Image: PCS

President William Ruto on Monday hosted Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at State House, Nairobi.

Ruto said trade between the two countries is still low despite the huge potential.

"Kenya will deepen its relations with Russia to increase trade volumes," he said.

The head of state said the two countries will sign a trade pact that will give businesses the necessary impetus.

The two leaders agreed on the need to reform the United Nations Security Council to make it more representative and more responsive to the needs of the 21st Century.

President Ruto said Africa needs to be represented at the Security Council which is the UN’s top decision making organ.

“The continent can bring to the table rich ideas, suggestions, and experiences that would serve the globe well,” he said.

The President observed that Kenya and Africa count on friends like Russia in the creation of a new architecture at the Council.

The Security Council also has 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

On the raging Russia-Ukraine War, President Ruto reiterated Kenya's steadfast position on respect for the territorial integrity of member States as outlined in the UN Charter.

"Kenya won't take sides on a matter that has friends on both sides. However, we call for a resolution of the conflict in a manner respectful to the two parties," he said.

WATCH: The latest videos from the Star