Ruto Snubs Putin’s African Leaders Summit
On Wednesday, July 26, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed announced that President William Ruto will not attend the upcoming second Russia-Africa summit, which is scheduled to commence on Thursday, July 27.
The spokesperson emphasized during a live briefing that the decision was made by the African Union’s ongoing reforms regarding development engagements with other nations and continents.
Mohamed added that Ruto was one of the leaders who had advocated for more structured discussions between Africa and foreign powers.
President Ruto has been vocal in his criticism of the treatment of Africa in prominent diplomatic forums in the past. To combat this, the head of state has urged Africa and its regional blocs to send representatives instead of sending African leaders to such events.
“He (Ruto) will be represented by the Africa Union organs. This decision is in line with the position of African heads of state and government, who believe that for Africa to engage in substantive discussions with global partners, the continent must have a voice.
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“Accordingly, the President will be represented by Decision 762, and he has informed the AU Chairperson of this fact.” read the assertion in part.
While other African presidents meet with Putin, Ruto will travel to the Coast region to launch development initiatives in six counties.
Ruto traveled to Tanzania in an official capacity on Tuesday, July 25. During the tour, Ruto and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu held bilateral discussions on trade, diplomatic relations, and job creation.
St. Petersburg will host the two-day Russia – Africa Summit hosted by Vladimir Putin.
The meeting in St. Petersburg coincides with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s efforts to strengthen the country’s position in Europe.
Politicians and executives from significant Russian businesses are anticipated to attend the two-day event.
Putin stated that the event will provide politicians, entrepreneurs, scientists, and public figures with the opportunity to share their perspectives on methods to strengthen multifaceted partnerships and discuss specific tasks that are vital to ensuring the sustainable and progressive development of both countries.
Yoweri Museveni, the president of Uganda, is among the African leaders who have already traveled to witness the event.
Ruto Snubs Putin’s African Leaders Summit
