President William Samoei Ruto has arrived in Évian-les-Bains, France, to participate in the 2026 G7 Leaders’ Summit, where he is championing Africa’s development agenda through calls for reforms in global financial systems, stronger international partnerships, and expanded investment flows to the continent.
The President was officially received in Évian-les-Bains by French President Emmanuel Macron, who is hosting this year’s summit. The reception marked the beginning of Kenya’s participation in high-level discussions alongside G7 members and invited partner countries.
William Samoei Ruto
Officially received in Évian-les-Bains, France, for the 2026 G7 Summit by President Emmanuel Macron.
Ruto is attending the summit at Macron’s invitation, with Kenya joining a select group of non-G7 nations invited to contribute to discussions on global challenges including economic growth, climate change, security, trade, and artificial intelligence.
Africa calls for equal partnership in global order
During the G7+ working session on “Fostering New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity,” President Ruto delivered a strong message calling for a shift in global relations.
“I had the honour and privilege of delivering the lead intervention during the G7+ working session on ‘Fostering New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity,’” Ruto said.
“Speaking on behalf of Africa, I called for a new paradigm in global relations—one grounded not in hierarchy, but in sovereign equality; not in aid alone, but in mutual benefit and shared prosperity.”
He added that Africa is seeking a fundamentally different relationship with the global community.
“Africa seeks neither dependency nor patronage. We seek partnership. Not as beneficiaries, but as equals. Not as spectators, but as co-authors of a shared future.”
Kenya deepens ties with Germany and other partners
On the sidelines of the summit, President Ruto held bilateral talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, where both leaders reaffirmed cooperation in key sectors.
“Kenya and Germany enjoy strong diplomatic relations founded on shared interests,” Ruto said.
“We are deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, renewable energy, agriculture, digital transformation, and micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) development, for the benefit of our peoples. Our bilateral labour agreement continues to expand access to quality jobs for our professionals.”
He also held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where the two leaders reaffirmed commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing shared priorities within multilateral forums.
“We value the longstanding relations between Kenya and India and remain committed to strengthening this partnership for the benefit of our people,” Ruto said.
“We reaffirmed our commitment to deepening bilateral ties and working together in multilateral forums to advance the aspirations of the Global South, including inclusive growth, sustainable development and a more equitable international order.”
Engagement with global financial institutions
Ruto also met World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, where discussions focused on Kenya’s development priorities and broader reforms in global financial systems.
“The World Bank has been an important partner in Kenya’s development, supporting investments that are improving livelihoods, expanding economic opportunity and strengthening resilience,” Ruto said.
“As we advance our development agenda, Kenya will continue to work closely with the World Bank to accelerate progress on our national priorities and deliver better outcomes for our people.”
He welcomed ongoing support for reforms to the international financial architecture, aimed at improving access to capital and strengthening resilience for developing economies.
Cultural diplomacy at the summit
Beyond political engagements, the summit also featured cultural exchanges. Ruto attended a performance at La Source Vive, where international artists and a children’s choir performed for heads of delegation and their spouses.
The President described the event as a powerful reminder of unity beyond politics.
“A memorable evening at La Source Vive, where four international artists and a children’s choir came together for a stirring musical performance for Heads of Delegation and their spouses attending the G7+ Summit at the Évian Resort,” he said.
“Set within the elegant atmosphere of the theatre and illuminated by the warmth of the evening, the performance transcended borders, reminding us of our shared humanity and the power of culture to bring people together.”
Background
President Ruto previously attended the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy, in 2024, where he represented African interests in global discussions on trade, climate action, and investment flows. His continued participation underscores Kenya’s growing diplomatic profile and its role as a bridge between Africa and major global economies.
Analysts say Kenya’s repeated invitations to the G7 Summit reflect increasing international recognition of its diplomatic influence and its efforts to shape global conversations on development finance reform, equity, and inclusive growth.
