Speaker Moses Wetang'ula Hosts Saudi Deputy Ambassador
National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Dr. Moses Wetang'ula today hosted H.E. Khaled Alzahrani, the Deputy Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Kenya, at his office in Nairobi.
The cordial meeting underscored the strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations, with discussions centering on regional security, peacekeeping efforts, and enhanced trade opportunities.
During the engagement, Speaker Wetang'ula commended Saudi Arabia for its continued support in stabilizing conflict-affected areas in East Africa, particularly in Somalia and South Sudan, where Kenya plays a leading role in peacekeeping missions under AMISOM/ATMIS frameworks. He urged Riyadh to deepen its backing for Kenya's initiatives aimed at promoting lasting peace across the region, stressing that "sustainable prosperity in East Africa depends on lasting peace." The Speaker highlighted the mutual benefits of collaboration in addressing longstanding conflicts that threaten stability and economic growth.
The talks also explored avenues to boost bilateral trade, with Wetang'ula advocating for expanded market access for Kenyan agricultural products in Saudi Arabia. Both sides agreed to establish a Parliamentary Friendship Group to foster closer inter-parliamentary relations, facilitate high-level dialogues, and address any barriers to stronger people-to-people and economic linkages. The meeting reflects Kenya's proactive diplomacy in leveraging partnerships with Gulf states amid growing interest in investment, labor mobility, and regional cooperation.
