NAIROBI – United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai met today with President William Ruto. The two leaders previously met in September 2022 when Ambassador Tai led a Presidential Delegation to Nairobi to attend the inauguration of President Ruto.
Ambassador Tai provided an overview of her trip to Kenya, which included meetings with government officials, stakeholders, and co-chairing a meeting of the U.S.-East African Community (EAC) Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council.
Ambassador Tai also delivered updates related to the U.S.-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP). Ambassador Tai noted her appreciation for the positive feedback the STIP has received so far. She noted the importance of continuing momentum on this initiative and for the United States and Kenya negotiating teams to intensify their engagement in the coming months.
Ambassador Tai and President Ruto also discussed the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and its role in strengthening U.S. economic and trade relations with the continent. Recognizing that AGOA reauthorization must come from the United States Congress, Ambassador Tai pledged to continue working with Members, relevant committees, and stakeholders on this issue.
Ambassador Tai thanked President Ruto for his government’s hospitality in hosting her this week and for Kenya’s participation in the U.S.-EAC TIFA Council meeting. Ambassador Tai and President Ruto agreed to maintain close cooperation between the United States and Kenya moving forward.
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