Ruto in UAE for trade deal, energy talks at Abu Dhabi summit

President William Ruto. [Standard, File]

President William Ruto left the country Monday evening to attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit in the United Arab Emirates, a global forum on sustainability.

 Ruto is expected to deliver a speech during the summit’s opening session under the theme “Exploring the Global Energy Transition.”

He plans to showcase Kenya’s leadership in renewable energy, particularly geothermal power while calling for partnerships to address energy challenges and promote green growth.

The president will also hold bilateral discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

“The talks will strengthen ties in energy, trade, investment and technology, which are critical for Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” said State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed.

Ruto’s visit will include signing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE.

The deal aims to increase trade and investment while simplifying export procedures between the two nations.

The UAE is Kenya’s sixth-largest export destination with tea, fruits, vegetables and flowers among key exports.

The agreement is expected to open access to new markets and attract investment in various sectors.

 “The UAE has been a key partner in driving Kenya’s economic goals and this visit is set to deepen our cooperation,” observed Mohamed.