Informing, Inspiring, Impacting

President Ruto Departs for Italy and Switzerland

President William Ruto at the 61st Madaraka Day celebration held at Masinde Muliro Stadium in Bungoma County on June 1, 2024. (Photo: PCS)

In Summary:

  • President William Ruto is attending the 50th G7 summit in Italy and a peace summit in Switzerland.

  • He will advocate for Africa’s role in global financial reform and address the impacts of the Ukraine conflict.

President William Ruto departed on Thursday evening to attend the 50th G7 summit in Apulia, Italy, followed by a peace summit in Burgenstock, Switzerland.

According to a statement from State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, President Ruto will first participate in the G7 summit before proceeding to the peace summit focused on Ukraine.

Mohamed outlined that President Ruto will speak on the unity of the African continent and its leadership in promoting a more equitable international financial system, as well as addressing significant global challenges.

“At both summits, President Ruto will highlight African leaders’ dedication to fostering global prosperity through a fairer international financial system, a more inclusive and effective multilateral system, and the collective resolution of global issues,” said Mohamed.

In Italy, President Ruto will stress the necessity of partnering with African nations to tackle global issues like climate change and conflicts, while advocating for reforms to create a fairer international financial system.

“He will also underscore Africa’s potential in green industrialisation, the digital revolution, and innovation,” added Mohamed.

As the African Union (AU) Champion for Institutional Reform, President Ruto will discuss AU reforms aimed at boosting trade and development, ensuring peace and stability, and enhancing global participation.

On Sunday, President Ruto will join other world leaders in Switzerland to chart a course towards achieving peace in Ukraine.

He will discuss the adverse effects of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and other global disputes, offering solutions based on Kenya’s mediation and peacebuilding experience.

“The President will also call for a reformed, more representative, democratic, and effective United Nations system to better address global peace and security challenges,” stated Mohamed.

Additionally, President Ruto is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with various Heads of State and Government on the sidelines of both summits.