Kenya-Romania ties: Presidents Ruto, Iohannis sign MoUs on environment, diplomacy
National
By
David Njaaga
| Nov 14, 2023
Kenya and Romania have signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in various fields in a bid to enhance their bilateral relations.
The MoUs are on environment, agriculture, and diplomacy.
The signing took place on Tuesday, 11 November, at Nairobi's State House, where President William Ruto hosted his Romanian counterpart President Klaus Iohannis who is on a three-day State visit to Kenya.
Ruto said the MoUs would start the process of actualising their common agenda in the areas of focus.
He also expressed confidence that the two countries would expand the scope of collaboration to more sectors in the future.
The two heads of State discussed several issues including trade and investment, political and diplomatic dialogue, cooperation in ICT, people-to-people engagement, peace and security, disaster risk management and international humanitarian support, and regional and multilateral cooperation.
President Ruto also urged Iohannis to join him in advocating for climate action and urging developed nations to honour climate financing commitments.
They agreed to seek innovative ways for climate financing and carbon markets.
The two leaders also shared concerns about the continued conflicts and instability in their regions and other parts of the world, including the Russia-Ukraine war.
"The war in Ukraine has created a dire situation in the whole region. As a result, the price of commodities has escalated and that has resulted in the high cost of living," said Ruto.
They agreed to play their roles within the existing instruments in the Community of Nations to contribute to a more peaceful and secure world.
Ruto and Iohannis also resolved to work together to promote and support the achievement of the global development agenda, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Kenya and Romania have a long history of friendship and cooperation, dating back to 1968.
President Iohannis is on an African tour which ends on November 23. He is also set to visit Tanzania and Senegal.