President William Ruto and President Ilham Aliyev have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations through cooperation in oil and gas, renewable energy, trade, and infrastructure development during talks held on the sidelines of the World Urban Forum in Azerbaijan.

The meeting, which took place at the Baku Olympic Stadium on May 17, 2026, focused on expanding economic partnerships between Kenya and Azerbaijan.

President Ruto said the two countries were exploring strategic areas of cooperation aimed at unlocking investment opportunities and strengthening economic collaboration.

“Kenya and Azerbaijan enjoy cordial diplomatic relations founded on a shared commitment to progress and mutual prosperity. We are exploring strategic areas of partnership to unlock the vast potential for cooperation between our two nations and expand opportunities for our people,” Ruto stated.

Oil refinery and energy cooperation

A key area of discussion was cooperation in the oil and gas sector, including Azerbaijan’s interest in Kenya’s proposed regional oil refinery project. The project is intended to support fuel supply and refining capacity for the East African region as Kenya continues to pursue energy infrastructure development.

The leaders also discussed renewable energy collaboration as Kenya advances plans to increase electricity generation capacity. Kenya is targeting the expansion of clean energy sources as part of broader efforts to strengthen energy access and industrial growth.

In addition, the discussions covered investment opportunities linked to Kenya’s affordable housing programme and other infrastructure initiatives. Azerbaijan expressed interest in participating in projects aimed at supporting urban development and economic growth.

Trade and investment opportunities

The bilateral talks also focused on trade expansion, including increased market access for Kenyan tea, horticultural products, and other agricultural exports.

The discussions formed part of broader engagements at the World Urban Forum, which has brought together heads of state, policymakers, development agencies, and private sector stakeholders to address urbanisation and sustainable development challenges.

President Ruto arrived in Baku, accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, and was received by Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defence Industry Vuqar Mustafayev and the ambassador to Kenya, Sultan Hajiyev.

During the visit, the president described the forum as “a vital platform for advancing partnerships and practical solutions for sustainable urban development.”

Kenya is expected to hold additional bilateral meetings during the forum focusing on cooperation in ICT, infrastructure, agriculture, and energy.

The engagements are part of efforts to expand international partnerships and attract investments aligned with Kenya’s development priorities under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.