By Peter Ochieng 

President William Ruto is expected to conclude his two day visit to Germany today, before he leaves for Belgium tommorrow (Wednesday, 29th, 2023).

The Head of State says his administration will foster ties with German, in various areas such as climate protection.

“Kenya values the rich and special friendship that it continues to enjoy with Germany. We are escalating this relationship to exploit the emerging opportunities and confront new challenges that face us. In particular, Kenya will intensify its ties with Germany in the field of climate protection, development of climate-compatible energy systems and adapting to the consequences of climate change,” said Ruto.

He shared his sentiments during a dinner meeting hosted by the German Bundestag, the equivalent of Kenyan Parliament, in Berlin, Germany.

On Monday, President Ruto met his German counterpart Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

The two leaders discussed a ray of issues, including the possibility of reducing non-tarrif barriers to reduce the cost of doing business between the two nations.

“Kenya and Germany will prioritise the elimination of non-tariff barriers to reduce the costs of doing business and ease the movement of goods between the two countries. These will enhance investments by German firms in Kenya and improve the balance of trade between the two countries that currently favors Germany,” noted President Ruto.

He jetted out of the country on Sunday for a visit to Germany and Belgium.
According to a statement released by State House, Nairobi, while in Belgium, the President is expected to hold talks with among others, the Prime Minister of Belgium Alexander De Croo and the President of European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

“The President will engage European Council President Charles Michel and the European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Pauliina Urpilainen. The meetings will reinforce Kenya’s commitment to the Kenya – EU Strategic Dialogue under the three key pillars of Peace, Security and Stability; Sustainable and Inclusive Development; and Economy, Trade and Investment.”

Since being sworn in, in September 2023, Ruto has visited several countries around the world, among them US, UK, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Senegal and Qatar.