By Lonah Kibet
Kenya: The Government has dispelled the perception that it is moving away from its traditional partners in Europe and promised to strengthen trade ties.
Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohammed explained that Kenya has had to review its foreign policy due to globalisation, responding to increased competition among states for export, foreign direct investment (FDI), appropriate technologies and development aid.
“This development is therefore not at the expense of our cherished relations with the traditional partners. This was to make it more relevant and dynamic in the new world through strengthening ties with traditional partners while at the same time exploring cooperation with emerging economies in eastern Europe, Asia, Middle East and Latin America,” said Ms Mohammed.
She was speaking yesterday during a breakfast meeting at a Nairobi hotel with European Union (EU) heads, led by Kenya head of delegation Lodewijk Briet. She said Kenya would continue creating a favourable environment for FDI while developing specific and clear policies to generate economic growth opportunities.
“Europe remains a very significant development and trading partner of Kenya, accounting for over 25 per cent of our exports and 34 per cent of imports in 2011. It is, therefore, my desire to see increased trade and investment between Kenya and EU countries,” she said.
REPATRIATION OF REFUGEES
Mohammed also called on the delegation to urge their governments and international community to assist in the repatriation of Somalia refugees.
She added that the Government was strongly committed to the realisation of peace and stability in the Horn of Africa under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the African Union framework.
Mr Briet said they had met with their chief elections observer in the country and had since accepted the election results.
“We, therefore, look forward to an open and strong dialogue with Kenya and embark on a promising road together,” he said.
