President William Ruto on Wednesday morning received letters of credence from five newly appointed ambassadors to Kenya in a formal ceremony held at State House, Nairobi. The envoys, both resident and non-resident, represent their respective nations and are tasked with strengthening diplomatic ties with Kenya.
The new ambassadors include George Psiachas (Hellenic Republic), Ines Fors Fernandez (Cuba), Kang Hyung Shik (Korea), Mario De Azevedo (Angola), and Madam Vu Thanh (Vietnam).
While receiving their credentials, President Ruto welcomed the diplomats to Kenya and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations.
“I, William Samoei Ruto, do accept your letters of credence and authorise you to pursue the interests of your government within the territory of Kenya by fostering the bond of friendship and promoting to the widest possible extent, within the law, the aspirations of the peoples of our nations. Ambassador, congratulations on your appointment, welcome to Kenya, and I look forward to working with you,” Ruto stated.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, senior government officials, and embassy representatives. It marks an essential diplomatic tradition, where a newly appointed envoy must present their credentials before formally assuming their role in the host country.
The letter of credence is a formal document from a sending country’s head of state to the receiving nation’s president, confirming the ambassador’s appointment and granting them the authority to represent their country. The presentation is a significant step in international diplomacy, as it officially recognizes the envoy’s mandate to engage in bilateral discussions, trade agreements, and other diplomatic affairs.
This is the second time President Ruto has presided over such a ceremony this year. On January 14, he received credentials from the Chinese Ambassador-designate to Kenya, Guo Haiyan.
The latest appointments come at a time when Kenya continues to expand its diplomatic reach, seeking stronger economic partnerships, trade agreements, and international cooperation. The new envoys are expected to play a critical role in enhancing ties between Kenya and their respective countries in areas such as trade, education, health, and infrastructure development.
