NAIROBI, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan President William Ruto on Monday pledged to further widen and deepen diplomatic engagement in 2026 with the international community.
Ruto, who delivered his annual diplomatic address to Heads of Mission and International Organizations in the capital, Nairobi, said Kenya will advance bilateral cooperation frameworks globally, promote peace and security, strengthen trade and investment ties, expand scientific, technological, and cultural exchanges, foster regional integration, facilitate labor mobility, and harness collective efforts toward shared continental and multilateral aspirations.
He said Kenya remains a firm proponent of a rules-based international order and reaffirmed the government's commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.
"The world stands at a critical inflection point with multilateralism under increasing strain. It is our firm belief that a strong United Nations -- and steadfast adherence to multilateral principles -- remains indispensable in addressing the complex and interconnected challenges of our time," Ruto said.
The Kenyan leader said Africa's continued exclusion, despite bearing a significant share of the Security Council's agenda and peacekeeping responsibilities, undermines the legitimacy and effectiveness of the UN.
Ruto underlined regional peace and security as a core focus of Kenya's foreign policy, stressing that stability in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region is inseparable from Kenya's own national security, economic prospects, and development trajectory.
"Kenya, therefore, remains actively engaged in regional and continental efforts to prevent conflict escalation, strengthen governance, and build resilience in fragile and conflict-affected states," he said.
According to Ruto, Kenya maintains that international initiatives, including the Washington and Doha processes, must reinforce and remain aligned with the consolidated African-led framework to support sustainable outcomes. ■