Ruto Holds Crucial Oil and Gas Meeting After Fuel Price Hike

President William Ruto has held high-level talks with President Ilham Aliyev in Baku, Azerbaijan, focusing on strengthening cooperation in key economic sectors including oil and gas, energy, housing, and trade.

The meeting took place at the Baku Olympic Stadium on the sidelines of the World Urban Forum on May 17,2026.

This comes at a time when Kenya is seeking new partnerships to stabilize energy costs and expand investment opportunities.

In his remarks, President Ruto emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

“Kenya and Azerbaijan enjoy cordial diplomatic relations founded on a shared commitment to progress and mutual prosperity.”Ruto said.

The discussions centered on expanding collaboration in the oil and gas industry, including potential investment opportunities that could help stabilize energy supply and support Kenya’s long-term development goals.

Also Read:Ruto Heads to World Urban Forum as Kenya Showcases Affordable Housing Success

Ruto Pushes Affordable Housing and Renewable Energy Expansion

President Ruto noted that Kenya is keen on building strong partnerships that will enhance access to affordable energy and improve economic resilience.

“Our discussions focused on fostering collaboration in the oil and gas sector, investments to scale up our affordable housing programme, and renewable energy partnerships to support our target of generating 10,000MW of power.”

“We also discussed Azerbaijan’s interest in the proposed oil refinery project aimed at serving the East African region,” he added.

Also Read:How Kenya’s Fuel Prices Compare to Other East African Countries After Latest Increase

Boosting trade and agricultural exports

Trade relations also featured prominently in the talks, with Kenya seeking to expand its export markets.

President Ruto noted interest in securing stronger market access for Kenyan tea, horticultural products, and other agricultural exports in Azerbaijan and the wider region.

“We are exploring strategic areas of partnership to unlock the vast potential for cooperation between our two nations and expand opportunities for our people.”

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

President Ruto,President IIham Aliyev and other stakeholders at the Baku Olympic Stadium
PHOTO/PCS