Ruto meets president of Norwegian Parliament, pledges deeper partnerships
By Faith Lagat, June 9, 2026President William Ruto has concluded high-level engagements in Oslo, reinforcing Kenya-Norway bilateral ties through enhanced parliamentary diplomacy, development cooperation, and strategic investments in infrastructure and the blue economy.
In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, the president detailed productive meetings that underscore both nations’ commitment to mutual growth, democratic governance, and sustainable development.
Ruto met with Masud Gharahkhani, President of the Norwegian Parliament (Storting), to explore avenues for strengthening Kenya-Norway relations. The discussions focused on deepening parliamentary cooperation, promoting democratic governance, and advancing shared development priorities.
Both leaders emphasised the role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering bilateral relations and greater understanding between their peoples.
The talks also highlighted Norway’s ongoing support for regional peace efforts in South Sudan. Kenya continues to lead constructive initiatives promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable peace in the region, with Norway’s partnership proving instrumental in these endeavors.
Economic cooperation and investment
In parallel economic engagements, President Ruto held discussions with Norway’s Finance Minister, Jens Stoltenberg, on potential collaborations between Norway’s sovereign wealth fund and Kenya’s National Infrastructure Fund (NIF).
The conversations centered on sharing best practices in sovereign wealth management and identifying investment opportunities in Kenya’s strategic infrastructure projects.
Kenya is pursuing sustainable long-term investments in key sectors, including ports, airports, roads, energy, and agriculture. A flagship ambition is generating 10,000 megawatts of electricity to support industrialisation, job creation, and inclusive growth.
Cooperation in green energy, climate finance, and carbon markets also featured in the discussions, aligning with both countries’ environmental and economic transformation goals.
Maritime and blue economy cooperation
Ruto highlighted progress in Kenya’s maritime and blue economy agenda through cooperation with Norway. The two countries are exploring investment, technology transfer, skills development, and employment opportunities for Kenyan seafarers.
The discussions include knowledge exchange in shipping industries, potential opening of new shipping routes, and improved connectivity between the ports of Mombasa and Lamu with Norwegian ports.
Efforts will also focus on green shipping, ocean sustainability, decarbonisation, and the development of green trade corridors. Ruto welcomed a commitment from Wilhelmsen Ship Management and other Norwegian shipping companies to employ 1,000 Kenyan seafarers by 2030, with 120 expected to secure positions by the end of 2026.