• President Suluhu directed the ministry of trade in both countries to meet and discuss on smooth trade business on the borders.
• President Suluhu said they have agreed to promote trade relations and unity on the borders of the two countries.
Image: PPS
President William Ruto and his Tanzanian counterpart Samia Suluhu held a meeting to discuss matters on bilateral relations between the two nations.
The two heads of state affirmed their commitment to strengthen relations in trade, tourism, security, communication among others.
President Suluhu said they have agreed to promote trade relations and unity on the borders of the two countries.
She revealed that her government in collaboration with Former President Uhuru Kenyatta had identified 68 non- tariff barriers.
"Out of the 68 non- tariff barriers experts have solved 54 barriers. We still have 14 barriers remaining," she said.
President Suluhu directed the ministry of trade in both countries to meet and discuss on smooth trade business on the borders.
Ruto said that Kenya and Tanzania share wildlife and by promoting good relations, both countries will mutually benefit in tourism.
President Ruto said that resources are available for both countries to boost tourism sector.
"Officials should help to remove the barriers that makes it difficult to run a smooth tourism so that business can benefit both countries," Ruto said.
He said that five countries including Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania had agreed on East Africa One Area network.
Ruto said that the East Africa One Area network will help to better communication for them to engage, talk more and work together.
"I want to congratulate the government of Tanzania for ratifying the East Africa One Area network and now what is remaining is the operationalization," Ruto said.
"I have requested President Suluhu to expedite so that the people of Kenya and Tanzania can work together."
Ruto promised to enhance cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania security agencies to share information and strategy to secure the boundaries.
"We have also agreed to fight against terrorism, human trafficking and the rest of the trans boundary crimes that is making our region uncompetitive and giving us a bad name," he said.
He said by sharing more information the two countries will reduce negative effects of unsecure boundaries.
Ruto revealed that Kenya and Tanzania had agreed to have the fourth joint commission before the end of the year to finalize the agreements.
President Ruto added that they have solved the past trade conflicts that existed between the two countries and the focus is to build a mutually beneficial relationship.