Kenya and Iran Strengthen Parliamentary and Economic Cooperation

Nairobi, The Gulf Observer: Kenya’s National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing Parliamentary engagements between Kenya and Iran. Speaking on Thursday during a courtesy call by Ali Gholampour, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Kenya, Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of collaboration through the Kenya-Iran Parliamentary Group.

He noted the significance of regular interactions between Members of Parliament from both countries to exchange ideas and strengthen Parliamentary ties, fostering deeper bilateral engagements.

“It is essential for Members of Parliament from both countries to meet, exchange ideas, and reinforce Parliamentary ties, fostering deeper bilateral engagements,” Wetang’ula said.

Wetang’ula also highlighted the critical role of Joint Commission Cooperation in overseeing bilateral initiatives between Iran and other nations. He further noted that the upcoming Iran-Africa Conference and Expo would provide valuable opportunities to explore new partnerships, while the Kenya-Iran Conference would boost diplomatic and economic relations.

The Speaker also announced that both sides had agreed to enhance direct market access for key commodities such as oil, tea, and coffee, among other mutually beneficial areas.

Ambassador Ali Gholampour, on his part, emphasized Iran’s significant role in importing pharmaceutical products and promoting agricultural development through exhibitions. He acknowledged the long-standing and cordial relationship between Kenya and Iran, marked by active cooperation in trade, education, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.

The meeting followed Ambassador Gholampour’s recent engagement with Mining and Blue Economy CS Hassan Joho, during which they discussed the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Kenya and the Islamic Republic of Iran on the blue economy sector.

CS Hassan Joho highlighted the strength of Iran’s institutions and infrastructure in fisheries development, agreeing on learning exchange programs, collaboration in seafood processing, and exploring partnership opportunities in maritime affairs and mining.

“We agreed to have learning exchange programs, collaboration on seafood processing, and opportunities for partnerships in maritime affairs and mining,” Joho stated.

The engagements mark a significant step forward in enhancing bilateral cooperation between Kenya and Iran, fostering economic growth and strengthening diplomatic relations.