Qatar, Kenya pledge to strengthen diplomatic ties
Qatar will continue to build and strengthen friendly relations with Kenya in order to achieve the aspirations of people of the two countries, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Kenya His Excellency Mohammed Bin Mutair Al-Enazi has said.
Al-Enazi noted that the bilateral relations between the two nations have witnessed significant development thanks to many bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between the two countries, and mutual visits between officials.
Speaking during Qatar’s 53rd National Day celebrations in Nairobi on Monday evening, Al-Enazi said Kenya, led by President William Ruto, had shown interest and readiness to build strong friendly relations with Qatar.
“We have seen this through our meetings with the president, members of his government, and Kenyan businessmen. On our part, we affirm our determination to strengthen friendly relations to reach the best possible level in order to achieve the aspirations of people of the two friendly nations.” He said.
He added that the growth of strong bilateral relations between the two states was reflected in the implementation of a number of projects implemented by the Qatar Fund for Development and the Education Above All Foundation.
“This includes a project dubbed ‘Supporting Equitable Access to Quality Primary Education for Out-of-School Children in Cooperation with UNICEF’, as well as the contributions of Qatar Charity represented in donations to support schools, displaced persons, digging wells, and other charitable projects.” Al-Enazi added.
He intimated that currently there are more than 70,000 Kenyan citizens working in Qatar in various fields, receiving care and attention and getting all their employment and social rights.
“As a reliable international partner, Qatar believes in supporting collective initiatives, bilateral and multilateral action through international institutions and regional organisations, and always affirms its readiness to respond to global crises such as climate change, food security, energy security, and humanitarian crises resulting from global conflicts. We look forward to more cooperation in the future.” He said.
On his part, Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary, who was the chief guest, Ali Hassan Joho reiterated Kenyan government’s commitment to foster lasting diplomatic and work relations with Qatar.
“I commended the diplomatic relations between Kenya and Qatar, which have grown since the establishment of ties in 2003 based on mutual respect, shared values, and strategic cooperation.” Joho said.
Further, Joho welcomed the proposal to establish a Qatar Visa Centre in Nairobi as a positive development since it would address labour mobility challenges, simplify pre-departure processes, and combat irregular migration, ensuring smooth transitions for Kenyan workers.
“On trade, I reiterate Kenya’s readiness to work collaboratively with the State of Qatar to boost bilateral trade for the mutual benefit of the two countries. Kenya exports fish and fishery products, horticultural products, fresh fruits, vegetables, and livestock.” The CS added.
