PM Khaire: Kenya is Somalia’s foremost development partner
File: Khaire & Kenyatta |
Prime Minister Khaire said the strong
partnership between the two countries is good for the stability and progress of
the East African region. The
Prime Minister was speaking Tuesday at State House, Nairobi, when he delivered
a goodwill and condolence message to President Kenyatta from President Mohammed
Abdullahi Mohamed of Somalia following the recent terrorist attack at Riverside
Drive. He commended President Kenyatta, saying
he is a true champion of Somalia’s transformation.
“Your
Excellency, you are our champion in the transformation of Somalia and we
request you to continue leading in the efforts of reconstructing our nation,”
said PM Khaire. The Prime Minister assured President Kenyatta that Somalia
stands in solidarity with Kenya in the fight against terrorism and violent
extremism. He said the terror attack at the DusitD2 complex has only
strengthened the resolve for the two countries to defeat terrorism and violent
extremism. The Premier congratulated Kenya’s security agents for the swift and
professional action that saved lives of many Kenyans and visitors.
He said
Somalia is on the positive trajectory as it strives to build on the gains made
in securing the nation by the AMISOM forces by coming up with a new
constitution, getting new currency as well as building strong security
institutions which are key to both economic and social stability of the
country.
The
Prime Minister said Somalia currently hosts over 50,000 Kenyans working in
various sectors of the economy, adding that the country has improved its
purchasing power and the investment environment through various development
programmes.
He
said the reconstruction of Somalia has seen its education, health and other community
development programs taking off, giving the country opportunity to negotiate
with international lenders such as the World Bank and the International
Monetary Fund.
“The
reconstruction of the country and the ongoing programmes in economic
development will help us reduce poverty and greatly contribute to our efforts
to combat terrorism and violent extremism,” the Prime Minister said.
President
Kenyatta thanked the Somali leadership for their support and solidarity
following the Riverside attack and their commitment to continue working with
Kenya in the fight against terrorism.
The
President expressed his delight to learn that Somalia is on the positive
trajectory, economically, socially and in its relations with global partners.
“This
is proof that Kenya’s efforts have not gone to waste,” said the President. President
Kenyatta assured the Somali Prime Minister that Kenya will continue to support
international efforts to stabilize and reconstruct Somalia.
Present
were Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ababu
Namwamba, Somali Ambassador to Kenya Mohamud Amed Nur and the Deputy Head of
Somali Mission Ali Mohamed Sheikh.
Source: KBC, Kenya.
Comments
Post a Comment