Kenya and Israel working on eight new MoUs – Ruto

Says they've also agreed to expand cooperation in trade, agriculture and technology.

In Summary

• The President 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.

President William Ruto holds talks with President of Israel Isaac Herzog at his Residence in Jerusalem on May 9, 2023.
President William Ruto holds talks with President of Israel Isaac Herzog at his Residence in Jerusalem on May 9, 2023.
Image: PSC

President William Ruto has said Kenya and Israel are working on eight new Memoranda of Understanding as the two nations look to bolster ties.

Speaking on Tuesday when he met Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Ruto said the MoUs touch on health, security and the Blue Economy. 

"We have an additional eight MoUs that are being worked on in different sectors. I am very keen of matters to do with health. As you are aware Kenya has identified health as one of her priority areas," he said.

The President 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." 

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.

Ruto is in Israel on a two-day State visit following an invitation by Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Natanyahu.

WATCH: The latest videos from the Star