By Ebi Kesiena
In a significant diplomatic move, Kenyan President William Ruto is scheduled to embark on a three-day visit to India, commencing on Monday.
pThis marks the first official visit by the leader of the influential East African nation in over six years, underlining the importance of the upcoming engagement.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Saturday that President Ruto is slated to meet his Indian counterpart, Droupadi Murmu, and engage in extensive discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit.
“At the invitation of President Droupadi Murmu, the President of the Republic of Kenya, William Samoei Ruto will pay a State visit to India from December 4 to 6,” stated the MEA.
Accompanied by a high-level official delegation, this visit is anticipated to fortify and rejuvenate the bilateral relations between Kenya and India, as expressed in the MEA’s official statement. The last Presidential visit from Kenya occurred more than six years ago, emphasizing the significance of this diplomatic endeavor.
Notably, President Ruto’s visit aligns with the recent induction of the 55-nation African Union into the G20 during the New Delhi summit, a move strongly advocated by India. The Kenyan leader is expected to receive a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan on December 5.
The MEA highlighted that detailed discussions between President Ruto and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are on the agenda, with a state banquet hosted by the Indian President in honor of his Kenyan counterpart.
Also, in addition to diplomatic engagements, the visiting leader is scheduled to participate in a business and investment event in New Delhi, further emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the visit.
The trip holds strategic importance in fostering collaboration and enhancing ties between Kenya and India across various sectors.
