President William Ruto and Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have agreed to work together to eliminate barriers to trade between the two countries.
Speaking on Tuesday, May 9 when he met the Prime Minister of Israel at his office in Jerusalem, President Ruto said the absence of direct flights between Kenya and Israel is a “serious impediment” that continues to hamper trade and tourism.
“We must exploit these opportunities. There are a wide range of exports that deserve to reach the Israel market,” Ruto stated.
The President noted that the review of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement gives Kenya Airways and El-Al — the flag carrier of Israel — an opportunity to elevate their operations.
"Today, Kenyan exports to Israel are worth Sh1.1 Billion while imports from Israel amount to Sh7.5 Billion a year. We are underperforming, but we have clear potential to do much more," he said.
On his part, Mr. Netanyahu committed to continue working with Kenya in fighting terrorism, countering radicalisation and violent extremism.
“It is our focus that we remain stable and peaceful as we pursue our socio-economic friendship,” Mr. Netanyahu said.
Earlier, President Ruto met his Israel counterpart Isaac Herzog at his residence in Jerusalem where they agreed to expand Kenya-Israel cooperation.
“We are broadening our friendship to efficiently produce more to feed our people and export the surplus,” argued President Ruto.
President Herzog observed that Israel’s modern farming technology will sustainably drive Kenya’s “hugely transformational plan”.
