Ruto Meets Abiy Ahmed in Ethiopia Ahead of UN Food Summit
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – July 27, 2025: President William Ruto held high-level talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Sunday ahead of the Second United Nations Food Systems Summit being co-hosted in Addis Ababa.
Deep-Rooted Diplomatic Ties
Speaking after their meeting, President Ruto emphasized the historical and strategic partnership between Kenya and Ethiopia, anchored on the Special Status Agreement signed in 2012.
“This enduring partnership has been marked by mutual respect, strong cooperation, and a shared vision for regional integration in the Horn of Africa,” President Ruto said.
The agreement provides a framework for enhanced collaboration in infrastructure development, energy, trade, investment, and regional security.
Focus on Bilateral and Regional Stability
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed confirmed that their conversation centered on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional matters of mutual concern.
“We received President Ruto for bilateral talks ahead of the UN Food Systems Summit. Our discussions covered key areas of cooperation and shared interests in regional stability,” PM Abiy stated in a post on social media.
Kenya’s Role in Global Food Security
President Ruto’s visit to Ethiopia comes as part of Kenya’s broader commitment to reshaping global food systems. According to State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, the summit presents an opportunity for Kenya to reaffirm its climate and development goals.
“At the summit, the President will deliver Kenya’s national statement, highlighting the country’s pledge to promote sustainable development and improve climate resilience through food system transformation,” said Hussein.
Strategic Meetings with Global Leaders
Beyond the summit, President Ruto is expected to engage in a series of high-level meetings with global and regional leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.
These discussions are expected to focus on strengthening multilateral partnerships and mobilizing private sector support for Africa’s development agenda.
President Ruto’s meeting with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signals a continued effort to build diplomatic bridges in the region and position Kenya as a key player in global policy conversations, especially around food security and sustainable development.
Related:
- Ruto to Address Global Food Security at UN Summit
- Inside the Kenya-Ethiopia Trade and Infrastructure Deal
