[PHOTOS] Uhuru, Estonian president sign health deal

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday held bilateral talks with his visiting Estonian counterpart Kersti Kaljulaid.

Kaljulaid is in Kenya for a three-day official visit. 

In pictures posted on social media, Kaljulaid led her respective delegations in the talks at State House, Nairobi.

During the discussion, the two Heads of State witnessed the signing of bilateral framework of cooperation on Political Consultations, Health as well as a letter of intent in the area of environment.

"...several matters of mutual interest to Kenya and Estonia were also discussed," State House spokesperson Kanze Dena said.

The two Heads of States noted with satisfaction the existing bilateral cooperation in various sectors particularly ICT and innovation in which Estonia is widely acclaimed as a global pace setter. 

Uhuru thanked Kaljulaid for bringing with her a high level business delegation to participate in Kenya-Estonia Business Forum with a focus on e-services.

The two Heads of State reiterated their commitment to continue strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors such as trade and investment, digital transformation with a view to spur economic growth to create employment for Kenya’s youth. 

They reiterated their commitment to work closely as Non-Permanent Members of the United Nations Security Council.

"This is with a view to contribute to international peace and security, respect for democracy and human rights, gender equality and women empowerment," Kanze said.

The two Heads of State emphasized the urgent need to address climate change and its impacts on the environment and the need to increase global efforts in this regard.

Kaljulaid, the first female President of Estonia, has made history by being the first Estonian Head of State to visit Kenya .

She praised Kenya's commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability and promoting the integration and economic development of the African continent.

Earlier on the presidents held private talks before leading their respective delegations in bilateral talks.

Uhuru applauded Kaljulaid for being appointed the UN Global Advocate for Every Woman and Every Child and expressed appreciation for choosing Kenya for the maiden visit to the continent.

"The devastating effects caused by COVID-19 on a global scale, require immediate and effective action by the international community as a whole to address it," Kanze said.

The two Presidents agreed on the need for universal access to vaccines against Covid-19.

"...and urged the international community to increase the sharing of the vaccines to ensure vaccination for all," she said.

Edited by CM