USA: state banquet at the White House in honor of William Ruto

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In the United States, a state dinner given in honor of Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife Rachel Ruto brought together some 500 guests in Washington.

The table was set in a huge glass roof installed for the occasion in the south garden of the White House, offering a breathtaking view of Washington DC.

Joe Biden toasted the Kenyan presidential couple: “ There is a bright light at the White House this evening thanks to our guests. They have been impressive and accommodating. Jill and I are honored to have you among us. You represent many members of the African diaspora. One of them has just left, Barack (Obama). He was very gracious. He met with President William Ruto this morning, and he was here a few years ago. moments .”

William Ruto's trip to the United States from Monday to Saturday confirms the strategic partnership established between Washington and Nairobi. On a continent in full political convulsions, and where China and Russia are gaining ground, the American president sees Kenya as a key ally. 

Kenya's largest creditor is China, which has launched major investment projects on the African continent, in some cases accompanied by insurmountable debts for the countries concerned. William Ruto, who visited Beijing last October, said the United States now had the opportunity to " completely review its strategy for Africa and strengthen its support " for the continent.

Nairobi's goals are to take advantage of US funding and influence. Kenya undertakes, in exchange, to deploy a peacekeeping force in Haiti.

The White House had not organized a state dinner for an African country in sixteen years.