President William Ruto jetted out of the country for Riyadh, in Saudi Arabia after his State of the Nation Address on Thursday, November 9.
The President is expected to take part in the inaugural Saudi-Africa Summit to be hosted by the Kingdom’s government.
Upon his arrival, the Head of State was received by Prince Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Deputy Governor of Riyadh.
He will join several other African heads of state in the summit designed to enhance political and economic ties between African nations and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Part of the Summit’s agenda includes sustainable energy development, regional security- among other areas of collaboration.
At least 50 countries will be represented in the Summit bringing together leaders from the Middle East and Africa.
On Thursday, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir was among the Presidents who flew to the Middle East Kingdom for the Summit.
Ruto’s attendance came amid jitters from some quarters regarding his increased foreign trips.
Also Read: Ruto Responds to Critics Over Foreign Travels
The President came under sharp criticism as some figures in Kenya’s political space complained of failure by the government to adopt austerity measures considering the prevailing constraints.
Gachagua Defends Ruto
In response to the critics, the President and his Deputy Rigathi Gachagua told of the critics noting that the trips were necessary and a way of bolstering Kenya’s relationship with foreign partners.
In a speech delivered during an event in Mombasa, Gachagua asked the President to ignore the critics and instead work to ensure maximum gains for Kenyans from the foreign engagements.
“If you are convinced that there are opportunities in a foreign country, board a plane and fly. Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud – Deputy Governor of Riyadh (left) welcomes President William Ruto in Riyadh during his visit,’ Gachagua stated.
Also Read: Gachagua Declares His Stance on Ruto’s Expensive Foreign Trips
When Ruto took to the podium in the event, he lauded Gachagua for defending him and vowed to continue with his trips despite the uproar.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura also defended the trips noting that they had yielded significant gains for the nation.
“It is common for heads of state to engage in such international trips to negotiate debt agreements. These diplomatic missions have resulted in tangible gains, including improved electricity and road infrastructure,” Mwaura said in a past interview.
