By Antynet Ford
Kenya and Ethiopia concluded a strategic framework to promote bilateral cooperation in key areas of economic and social development.
The 36th Ethiopia-Kenya Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) between the two countries will anchor bilateral relations, social, security, and foreign relations cooperation.
Speaking during the JMC which he co-chaired, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Kenya will explore ways to strengthen the friendly relations.
He underlined the need for Kenya and Ethiopia to resolve trade barriers, including tariff and non-tariff barriers that stifle the expansion of trade between the two partners.
The two countries pledged to enhance their cooperation and signed a memorandum of understanding in seven specific areas—tourism, wildlife, culture, blue economy, petroleum, correctional services, and capacity building in public service.
Ethiopia expressed its commitment to work for peace and
prosperity, including through enhanced security along the common border.
The two sides further agreed to promote parliamentary diplomacy through exchange visits by the speakers of Kenya’s National Assembly and Ethiopia’s House of Peoples Representatives.