Kenya and Djibouti have agreed to abolish visa requirements for their citizens in a move aimed at promoting people-to-people interactions, trade, and investment.
During a joint press conference with his Djiboutian counterpart Ismail Guelleh, Kenyan President William Ruto reiterated his administration’s commitment to eliminating the barriers imposed by visa requirements for Djiboutian citizens traveling to Kenya.
However, no timeline was given for the realization of the new visa-free arrangement.
To improve coordination on labor migration and ensure predictability, both governments had agreed to accelerate the negotiation and finalization of a comprehensive labor agreement between the two states.
They also established a Joint Technical Committee dedicated to workforce development efforts.
Additionally, they engaged in discussions regarding support for English language training and its integration into Djibouti’s curricula.
To unlock the untapped potential for expanding commercial relations, the two countries have agreed to establish a Joint Business Council that will work towards synergizing trade missions and facilitating improved market access.
The absence of direct flights connecting the two countries was singled out as a significant impediment to desired trade between them.
As a solution, both nations will focus on generating demand from both sides aiming to resume direct flights including reviewing existing Bilateral Air Service Agreement.
Following their meeting, four MOUs were signed namely; an MOU to facilitate cooperation in energy development, an MOU on Technical Cooperation in Youth Affairs and Arts which establishes collaboration framework in sports and arts facilities development, an MOU on mutual cooperation in Foreign Service Academy and an agreement on collaboration in tourism field.
The establishment of digital connectivity is crucial in fostering innovation and expanding e-commerce with the two countries.
To this end, Kenya will promptly review Djibouti Telecoms’ proposal to sell its undersea cable infrastructure to Kenya’s TEAMs taking into account technological advancements and requirements of both parties. “This agreement will strengthen exchanges and partnerships between our two countries, promote sustainable tourism development, and enhance our tourism assets,” Ruto said.
