Kenya has reaffirmed its strong partnership with the United States while addressing concerns about its growing ties with China, clarifying that it is expanding its diplomatic reach rather than shifting allegiance.

During a recent state visit to China, President Ruto became the first African leader to visit in 2025, where he advocated for a fairer global system at Peking University.

In meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Ruto elevated Kenya-China relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and signed 20 cooperation agreements, including extending the Standard Gauge Railway to the Ugandan border.

Senator Jim Risch expressed concerns that Kenya's engagement with China could lead to a reassessment of U.S.-Kenya relations, particularly amid domestic unrest related to tax hikes for debt repayment.

Koech highlighted ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement between Kenya and the U.S., which would mark the first such agreement with a sub-Saharan African country.

Koech emphasized that Kenya shares many U.S. priorities, such as climate change and trade reform, advocating for equitable frameworks that benefit the Global South.

He referenced the peaceful 2022 Kenyan elections, which were supported by the U.S., underscoring the importance of the U.S.-Kenya partnership.

Koech credited the U.S. for significant health contributions in Kenya through initiatives like PEPFAR, which have transformed millions of lives.

He stressed the importance of recognizing the depth of the U.S.-Kenya partnership and the need for a just global system that includes African contributions to international governance.

Koech drew parallels between Kenya's aspirations for a fairer global system and U.S. calls for reform in international institutions, emphasizing equity and shared responsibility.

Koech invited Senator Risch and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to visit Kenya to gain firsthand insight into the nation's direction and aspirations.

He noted joint efforts in counterterrorism and regional peacekeeping, including operations in Somalia and the Haiti Multinational Security Support Mission.