Kenya and Italy have signed two agreements that will advance bilateral cooperation between the two states.
Speaking from the State House on Tuesday, President William Ruto said the two agreements will provide a framework for the advancement of bilateral cooperation in different fields.
“We have just concluded a highly successful bilateral engagement in which we held productive discussions and agreed to consolidate and advance the good relations between our countries,” he said.
Italy's President Sergio Mattarella arrived in the country on Monday evening for a four-day official visit.
Ruto revealed that the first MoU will see the two countries cooperate in the field of Health, towards the realisation of Universal Health Coverage and improved pharmaceutical production.
In the other agreement, Kenya and Italy agreed on bilateral consultations that will establish and set guidelines for the conduct of political consultations at the respective ministries of foreign affairs.
“In our meeting, President Mattarella and I also had the opportunity to discuss issues of regional and international significance,” Ruto said.
As a result, the two heads of state pledged to work together in securing a peaceful future for parts of their respective continents affected by conflict and instability.
Ruto noted that Kenya appreciates Italy’s pledge to support the country’s efforts to restore regional peace, security and stability.
Italy and Kenya also agreed to collaborate bilaterally, at the United Nations and other multilateral forums, on the basis of the convergence of values, principles and positions, to promote peace and security, trade, health, climate action and the elimination of hunger and malnutrition.
“On this highly successful visit, President Mattarella and I re-affirmed the strong bonds of friendship and solidarity that hold our nations and peoples together. This State Visit is a clear demonstration of the commitment we share to enhance bilateral ties through continuous dialogue and sustained exchange of knowledge,” Ruto added.
