Jordan, Kenya set to boost trade, anti-terrorism cooperation

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday met with Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta in Nairobi over means to enhance bilateral relations and the latest regional and international developments, with focus on efforts to fight terrorism.

His Majesty stressed Jordan's keenness to establish ties with Kenya in various fields, mainly at the political, economic, investment, commercial, pharmaceutical industries and medical tourism levels.

Talks tackled the Kingdom's intention to open an embassy in Nairobi, a step that would take ties between Jordan and Kenya to the next level, according to a Royal Court statement.

King Abdullah underlined Jordan’s economic advantages and its geographical location that makes it a link between the region and Africa. In this context, the two leaders discussed prospects of increasing commercial activity between Aqaba and Mombasa ports. 

The King and Kenyatta agreed to sign commercial agreements between Amman and Nairobi, prior to holding the Jordanian week, a trade show, in Kenya in December.

In this regard, they highlighted the importance of the planned show in acquainting Kenyan and other African businesspeople with the Kingdom’s industries and products, and as a venue to forge partnerships and conclude agreements between the private sectors in both countries.

As for regional developments, the Monarch called for enhancing joint cooperation and coordination, as well as sustaining consultations related to top priority issues, especially terrorism that threatens the security and stability of the Middle East, Horn of Africa and the entire world.

Discussions also covered efforts exerted to enhance the security and stability for the peoples of the Middle East and Africa, with both leaders urging cooperation among the countries of both regions to address common challenges, the statement added.

They also pointed out the significance of building on the outcomes of last year’s Aqaba meetings between King Abdullah and several African heads of states, including Kenyatta, which aimed at coordinating international efforts in the war against terrorism within a comprehensive approach.

Before concluding the visit, His Majesty joined the Kenyan president in attending a joint military drill implemented by the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army’s Rapid Response Unit and the Kenyan army’s special forces.

The drill is the first military event the unit executes abroad. It entirely depended on its own resources, weapons and special equipment.

The force was formed under Royal directives, as a flexible, self-sufficient unit able to execute missions day and night and under different weather conditions.

Kenyatta hosted a lunch banquet in honour of His Majesty and the accompanying delegation, which included King’s Military Adviser and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs-of-Staff General Mashal Al Zaben.

HRH Prince Raad, the Chief Chamberlain, was sworn in as Regent during His Majesty’s absence.