Kenya-Israel to explore health, blue economy opportunities

Kenya is looking forward to expanding its relationship with Israel as they mark the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties.

President William Ruto on Friday said that over the years, the two states have been having good relations.

"Kenya-Israel ties have grown from strength to strength because of cooperation in education, trade, agriculture and security," he said.

Ruto said that Kenya and Israel will explore more opportunities for partnership in food production and irrigation, blue economy, border control and health.

He spoke after meeting Israel's Ambassador to Kenya Lotem Michael at State House, Nairobi.

In May, when Isreal President Isaac Herzog was in Kenya, the two states announced the signing of eight MoUs touching on health, security and the Blue Economy. 

President Ruto urged Israel to offer technological support and expertise in Kenya's Blue Economy sector.

He also said Kenya was working on including the private sector in the security space.

"By allowing them to do trade, do business, invest without unnecessary restrictions specifically on the subject of double taxation," he said.

On his part, President Herzog said Israel and Kenya are "dear, close friends" as he welcomed Kenyans to the country.

He said the talks between the two countries were perceived as an important turning point in the upgrading of the bilateral relations. 

"We are grateful to you for your friendship with us in the international forum. Thank you very much," Herzog said.

The two leaders agreed to expand their cooperation in trade, agriculture, security and technology.