WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, published an op-ed in The Hill recognizing the importance of the strategic relationship between the United States and Kenya following Kenyan President William Ruto’s state visit last week – marking the first such trip by an African leader in more than 15 years.
Senator Coons talked about ways to increase economic engagement with Kenya, including his bipartisan AGOA Renewal and Improvement Act of 2024 – a key trade and investment program that facilitates stronger commercial ties between the United States and eligible sub-Saharan African countries.
President Ruto has been a necessary partner in working to alleviate the effects of climate change by investing in conservation and focusing on collaborative strategies to protect the environment on a global scale. Last week, President Ruto joined members of Congress for an International Conservation Caucus Foundation event hosted by Senator Coons, where he spoke about our shared interest in people-centered conservation.
The Hill: A close relationship with Kenya is essential to our country’s success
Key excerpt: The tests Kenya faces are echoed across the continent and the globe. Their approach is rooted in a belief in democracy, in expanding opportunity, and collaborating with partners, including the United States. It’s a testament to President Biden’s leadership that he recognizes that a close relationship with Kenya is essential to our country’s success, and that a state visit from a Kenyan president sends a signal of our seriousness.