Ruto, Rubio hold talks on trade, AI and regional security

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly as Kenya seeks to deepen its economic and strategic partnership with the United States.

Ruto said the two countries’ relationship is anchored on trade, security, technology and development.

“We welcome the extension of AGOA, which will strengthen trade between Africa and the United States and expand economic opportunities,” Ruto said.

The President said Kenya and the U.S. are also broadening cooperation in emerging sectors, particularly Artificial Intelligence and its application in health, education and financial services.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the responsible governance of rapidly advancing AI technologies and explored opportunities for cooperation in critical minerals and nuclear energy.

According to U.S. State Department Spokesman Tommy Pigott, Rubio and Ruto discussed how Kenya’s critical minerals opportunities could position the country as a key player in the sector while creating opportunities for U.S. firms to support value addition.

On regional security, Ruto said the talks focused on sustaining the security mission in Somalia, supporting stability in Haiti and addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

“We discussed sustaining the security mission in Somalia, supporting stability in Haiti, and addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan through efforts towards a ceasefire, political settlement and continued regional engagement,” Ruto said.

Rubio also expressed appreciation for Kenya’s partnership with the U.S. Government in implementing the America First Global Health Strategy, which seeks to establish a new approach to the two countries’ longstanding health partnership.

The meeting comes as Kenya continues to position itself as a key U.S. partner in Africa, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, security, technology, health and regional diplomacy.