Moscow talks give Russia-Kenya dialogue ‘new impetus’ – Lavrov

The top diplomats discussed many areas for cooperation, including trade, security, education and tourism

A meeting between the top diplomats of Russia and Kenya in Moscow is expected to improve the political dialogue between the two countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said. 

Speaking after talks with Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs of Kenya Musalia Mudavadi, Lavrov noted that the sides focused on defining new directions for bilateral cooperation and coordinating positions on international issues.

“I have no doubt that the negotiations in Moscow will make it possible to provide new impetus to our political dialogue, outline ways to further deepen trade, and economic cooperation,” Lavrov said, adding that culture, education and other humanitarian ties remain important parts of the partnership.

The parties agreed to accelerate the preparation of documents that will contribute to the development of Russia-Kenya cooperation, the foreign minister stated. They also discussed political developments in the region, as well as the work of the African Union and other sub-regional organizations in which Kenya plays a significant role. Lavrov added that Moscow and Nairobi considered prospects for cooperation in security and counterterrorism, and in expanding media ties.

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The Russian foreign minister said Moscow is interested in concluding a labor migration agreement with Kenya to create a stable framework for employment opportunities. 

Mudavadi said Kenya sees scope to expand cooperation with Russia in education, noting that more than 3,500 Kenyans have studied in Russia since independence and about 70 currently receive Russian scholarships. He added that around 9,000 Russian tourists visit Kenya each year.

The Kenyan official also pointed to opportunities for cooperation in energy and agriculture, while noting that bilateral trade currently totals about $500-600 million but has the potential to grow.

“As for technology, Russia has technologies in the field of nuclear energy. We would also like to expand our energy potential,” Mudavadi highlighted.

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Responding to a question about a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly establishing the International Day for the Fight Against Colonialism with active support from Russia, Mudavadi said Kenya attaches “great importance” to the initiative.

Kenyan delegation’s visit to Russia runs from March 15 to 18.