Kenya and Yemen have committed to explore strategies that will lead to an increase in bilateral trade between the two countries.
Speaking when he hosted Yemen’s Minister for Foreign and Expatriate Affairs, Ahmed Bin Mubarak, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said the two countries will exploit the strong historical and mutual interest particularly in maritime trade, coffee and tea.
“We as Kenya have a deliberate policy to engage our Middle East friends, very important for trade and a big market for our coffee and tea. Even when they don’t consume our products they have acted as a major transhipment to other markets,” said Wetang’ula.
The Speaker said Kenya sees the Middle East as an important market for its products, and this collaboration aims to strengthen business ties and potentially lead to investment and job opportunities in Kenya.
He further encouraged Yemen to invest in Kenya, collaborate in food production, and establish trading hubs within the country, which would result in business and job opportunities for Kenyans.
The Speaker also expressed his hope for peace in Yemen, as stability in the region directly impacts Kenya.
“Peace for Yemen is peace in Kenya and if there is no peace in Yemen, Kenya will be affected in many ways,” he added.