President William Ruto met with his US counterpart, Joe Biden at a reception hosted by the American head of state on Friday, September 23.



In the meeting that occurred after Ruto addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the two leaders discussed the mutual interest of both countries.

Ruto stated that Biden expressed interest in fostering bilateral relations with Kenya and working with his administration.

The President was accompanied by the first lady, Mama Rachel Ruto.
"Kenya will continue expanding its strategic partnership with the United States of America to advance peace and prosperity in Africa.

"With Rachel at a reception hosted by the POTUS during the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, New York," read the statement in part.

This was the first time Ruto was meeting Biden as Kenya's head of state.

Earlier, the President also met US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, who assured him that the US government would continue partnering with Kenya in various sectors.

"Good meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto to discuss our countries’ ongoing efforts to address food insecurity and regional peace and security. I look forward to strengthening our strategic partnership, especially on trade and investment," Blinken stated.

"I pledged to advance our strategic partnership at both bilateral and multilateral levels," Ruto echoed.

Ruto made his inaugural speech at UNGA on Wednesday, September 21.

In his speech, Ruto delved into the bottom-up economic model, Kenya's debt and the effects of climate change on food security in the country and Africa.

The head of state was accompanied by Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen, Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro, Ababu Namwamba, Economist David Ndii and former WSR campaign secretariat communications director, Hussein Mohamed.