Djibouti, 11 June 2023 (TDI): Kenya and Djibouti have announced their commitment to promoting a visa-free regime to enhance trade between the two nations. President William Ruto of Kenya and President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti reached this agreement during a meeting at the Palais Presidential in Djibouti on June 11, 2023.
As part of their efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, the two leaders have agreed to establish the Kenya-Djibouti Business Council. The Council will serve as a platform to facilitate commerce and investments between the two countries.
In addition, President Ruto announced that visitors from Djibouti to Kenya will no longer require visas, emphasizing the importance of easing the movement of people, goods, and services within Africa.
Furthermore, the leaders of Kenya and Djibouti have pledged to collaborate in the areas of tourism and hospitality, aiming to boost their respective economies. This will be supported by the resumption of air transport between Nairobi and Djibouti.
President Ruto highlighted that the strengthened ties between Kenya and Djibouti will contribute to regional stability in the Horn of Africa. He emphasized that ensuring peace and security is vital for the development and progress of countries in the region.
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President Guelleh echoed the importance of a secure environment in driving significant progress in Africa. Both leaders emphasized the importance of addressing unemployment, poverty, and inequality in Africa, calling on other African nations to take action. They highlighted the significant global presence and influence of Africa in this regard.
President Ruto further emphasized the importance of African unity and the pursuit of free trade to generate employment opportunities and economic growth. He underscored the need for a reformed and streamlined African Union to propel the continent forward. He also highlighted the operationalization of a Pan-African Parliament as a crucial step towards addressing contemporary challenges.
Kenya and Djibouti are laying the foundation for increased trade and economic success between their countries. They are promoting stability and development across Africa by giving importance to regional collaboration and supporting a Visa exemption program.
