Kenya and the Republic of the Congo have signed comprehensive bilateral agreements aimed at expanding their economic welfare.
The more than 18 agreements include partnerships in trade and investment, energy, ICT, transport, security, education, tourism, culture, agriculture, the blue economy, among others.
Speaking on Saturday, July 8 at the Palais du Peuple in Brazzaville during a media briefing alongside his host President Denis Sassou N'Guesso, President William Ruto announced that Kenya and Congo have agreed to abolish visa restrictions to ease people's movement.
He noted that the move will enhance integration and boost trade, adding that Kenya was working towards restoring direct flights between Nairobi and Brazzaville.
The Head of State committed to fast-track the opening of a resident diplomatic mission in Brazzaville.
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The President mentioned that joint infrastructure development would significantly improve the region's connectivity and boost investment.
He cited the ongoing infrastructure project seeking to connect Mombasa and Pointe Noire through road, rail, and water.
He told the media that Kenya and Congo will continue cooperating under the AU and IGAD frameworks to restore peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Eastern DRC.
"We emphasise the need to maintain peace, security and stability within the region as a prerequisite for development," Ruto stated.
President Ruto disclosed that Kenya and Congo agreed to take common stands at the global levels on issues affecting the people of the two nations.
He cited the need to reform the United Nations and other multilateral organisations to make them more representative, accountable and responsive to geopolitical realities.
Earlier, President Ruto presided over a business forum in Brazzaville that brought together Kenyan and Congolese investors.
"We will establish a conducive environment where entrepreneurs can freely invest under the African Free Continental Trade Area framework," he told the meeting.
On his part, President N'Guesso said Congo will play its part towards the realisation of the signed agreements.
He said Congo is committed to enhancing infra-African trade.
“We are going to implement this agreement for the benefit of the people.”
