“Kenya treasures the cordial relations it enjoys with Eritrea and is keen on furthering this cooperation for regional stability and prosperity of the two countries.” – President Ruto

BY MOI ERITREA

President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya arrives in Asmara in the evening hours of today, 9 December for a two-day official visit on the invitation of President Isaias Afwerki.

Upon arrival at Asmara International Airport, President William Ruto and his delegation were awarded a warm welcome by President Isaias Afwerki.

The senior delegation of the Republic of Kenya comprises Cabinet Secretary & Defence Minister Aden Bare Duale Gure; Deputy Chief of Staff Josphat K. Nanok; Senators Jackson Kiplagat Arap Mandago and Cheruiyot Aaron Kipkirui; Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Josephat Nanok as well as other senior Government officials and members of Parliament.

The welcoming ceremony was attended by Ministers and senior officials of Eritrea as well as Mr. Beyene Russom, Eritrean Ambassador to Kenya.

President Isaias Afwerki and President William Ruto will conduct discussions focusing on bilateral relations as well as regional developments.

Held bilateral talks with Eritrea's President H.E. Isaias Afwerki in Asmara. pic.twitter.com/NmVvf50Klc

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) December 9, 2022

Communique Following Official Visit to Eritrea

– On December 9-10, 2022, His Excellency the President, Hon. William Samoei RUTO, PHD., C.G.H., undertook an official visit to the State of Eritrea at the invitation of his host, H.E. President Isaias AFWERKI.

– Following warm and cordial deliberations between the two Leaders, the following was agreed upon;

On Bilateral Issues;

1) The two Excellencies agreed to bolster bilateral relations between Kenya and Eritrea as well as improving people-to-people ties with a view to enhancing and entrenching regional integration. To this end, the two countries shall abolish visa requirements for their respective citizens. The two countries will also cooperate in the African Union in the spirit of Pan-Africanism.

On Regional and Multilateral Issues:

2) The two leaders agreed to work together and consult on regional integration and to safeguard regional peace, security, and development in the Horn of Africa.

In this vein, the two Leaders noted the need for firm and inspired leadership in the region, with a view to ensuring and guaranteeing peace and stability in the countries of the region.

On Matters of Trade and Regional Cooperation

3) The two leaders underscored the importance of promoting regional trade and investment through developing regional land, sea, and air transport. They noted the need for overcoming current challenges through regional initiatives that would benefit from economies of scale and pooling of resources.

Done on this the 10th day of December in Asmara, Eritrea.