Washington, DC — Today, Reps. Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), John James (R-MI), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Young Kim (R-CA), and Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing the strategic importance of Kenya to the United States.
“As we mark 60 years of U.S.-Kenya diplomatic relations, we recognize Kenya's indispensable role in promoting stability and prosperity in East Africa and beyond. Our partnership with Kenya is not only crucial for regional security but also pivotal in addressing global challenges,” said Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. “Together, we will continue to strengthen our partnership and work bilaterally towards a more secure and prosperous shared future.”
“The United States and Kenya have long shared a strong bilateral partnership, and Kenya plays a critically important role as a cornerstone of stability in East Africa and as a valued ally of the United States,” said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. “As we welcome President William Ruto of Kenya to the United States, it is essential that we recognize the significance of the U.S.-Kenya relationship and reaffirm our joint commitment to promoting peace and security, expanding economic ties, and upholding democratic values.”
“As Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, I'm honored to join my colleagues on this resolution that recognizes the significance of the U.S.-Kenya strategic partnership as we welcome President William Ruto of Kenya to the United States,” said Congressman John James. “Kenya is a crucial strategic partner in Africa for the United States, especially as we work together to promote democracy, enhance our economic partnerships, and counter the growing influence of the Chinese Communist Party and Russia in the continent.”
“As Chairman of the House Democracy Partnership, I have had the privilege to work closely with the Kenyan Parliament for many years, which was one of our founding partners in 2006,” said Congressman Vern Buchanan. “I am pleased to join this resolution to help recognize our close partnership for six decades which has resulted in increased economic, strategic and diplomatic ties between our two countries.”
“The U.S.-Kenya partnership is more important than ever, as we work together to address imminent famine in East Africa, spur economic investment, and strengthen advancements in new technologies as well as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law," said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs. “Last year, I traveled to Kenya and saw firsthand the vibrancy of the Kenyan people and the desire to strengthen our mutually beneficial partnership. As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Africa, I’m pleased to welcome President William Ruto of Kenya to the United States, marking the first state visit by an African leader since 2008, and I will continue to push to further our shared goals and priorities.”
“Kenya is a friend of the United States and an important strategic partner in Africa as we promote democracy, advance our economies and security, and counter growing influence by the Chinese Communist Party,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “I’m proud to help introduce a bipartisan resolution recognizing the importance of the U.S.-Kenya strategic partnership as we welcome President of Kenya William Ruto to the United States. I’ll continue to do my part supporting our shared priorities and values as a member of the Africa Subcommittee.”
“As we welcome President Ruto and mark 60 years of friendship, this resolution sends a clear message that we value and appreciate our relationship with Kenya, and we are committed to maintaining and strengthening it,” said Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson. “The U.S. is one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Kenya immediately after the country became independent in 1963. Since then, our two countries have collaborated on several issues vital to the national interests of both. Kenya is a crucial ally in fighting terrorism. Both at the African Union and the United Nations, Kenya continues to work to advance shared global values, peaceful resolution of conflicts, human rights initiatives, democracy, development, environmental protections, and peacekeeping. Kenya is a major power in Africa and home to two vital UN agencies. Moreover, Kenya is a trading partner and a participant in the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.”
The United States and Kenya established diplomatic relations in 1964. This week marks the first state visit by an African Head of State in 16 years, demonstrating the critical relationship between Kenya and the United States.
Kenya has one of Africa’s most dynamic economies and is one of the largest beneficiaries of the African Growth and Opportunities Act. Over the last decade, Kenya has diversified its economy, positioning East Africa among the world's fastest-growing regions. This progress presents increased opportunities for partnerships with U.S. government and private sector entities, advancing U.S. strategic, economic, and human development goals. With continued stability and prosperity, Kenya and East Africa have the potential to become a major global economic success story. Kenya is a valuable partner in the fight against al-Shabaab and is at the forefront of addressing global security challenges.?
The resolution recognizes Kenya’s strategic importance to the United States, celebrates six decades of diplomatic relations, and encourages continued partnership between the United States and Kenya to advance peace and security, expand economic ties, and defend democratic values.
Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tim Scott (R-SC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Todd Young (R-IN) introduced the resolution in the Senate.
The full text of the resolution can be found here.