Ruto begins European tour to Belgium, Norway and Finland
President William Ruto left the country yesterday for a multi-nation tour of Europe, with visits to Belgium, Norway and Finland aimed at attracting investment, expanding export markets and strengthening strategic partnerships for Kenya.
In a statement issued yesterday, State House said the tour will focus on deepening economic cooperation, enhancing trade relations and unlocking new opportunities for Kenyan businesses and exporters.
The president’s first stop will be Brussels, Belgium, where he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with King Philippe and Matthias Diependaele.
Discussions are expected to centre on strengthening bilateral relations, trade and investment cooperation between Kenya and Belgium.
President Ruto will also engage European business leaders to explore opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, logistics and value addition as Kenya seeks to boost exports, create jobs and attract foreign direct investment into key sectors of the economy.
A key highlight of the Brussels visit will be meetings with senior European Union leaders, including António Costa and Roberta Metsola.
The discussions will focus on the implementation of the Kenya-European Union Economic Partnership Agreement.
The agreement grants Kenyan exports duty-free and quota-free access to the European market and is expected to provide significant benefits to sectors such as tea, coffee, horticulture, cut flowers and other value-added products.
Following his engagements in Belgium, President Ruto will travel to Oslo, Norway, for an official visit.
He is expected to hold consultations with Jonas Gahr Støre and meet Crown Prince Haakon.
The president will also attend the Kenya-Norway Business Forum, where discussions will focus on renewable energy, electric mobility, the blue economy and climate-smart agriculture.
The tour will conclude with a state visit to Finland at the invitation of President Alexander Stubb.
Talks are expected to cover cooperation in education, technology, clean energy, environmental sustainability, healthcare, peace and security.
State House said the European tour underscores Kenya’s efforts to strengthen economic diplomacy and position the country as a leading investment and trade destination in Africa.
