Angola plans to exempt Kenyans from visa requirements and resume direct flights by Kenya Airways to Luanda, as discussed in a meeting between President João Lourenço and President William Ruto. This move aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties and facilitate easier access for Kenyan professionals. The leaders also discussed continental issues, including peace initiatives and AU reforms, reflecting a commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
Angola has announced its intention to exempt Kenyan citizens from visa requirements, following a significant meeting between Angolan President João Lourenço and Kenyan President William Ruto in Luanda. This collaboration aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations, highlighted by the planned resumption of direct flights operated by Kenya Airways to Luanda, anticipated to resume within two months, according to the Kenyan presidency. President Ruto emphasized that this initiative will facilitate easier access for professionals and bolster bilateral ties between the two nations.
During the discussions, both leaders addressed broader continental issues, including peace initiatives in the Great Lakes region, the need for institutional reforms within the African Union, and the forthcoming election of the chairperson of the African Union Commission. In this context, President Ruto, acting on behalf of other African leaders, invited President Lourenço to a retreat in Kenya ahead of the AU Heads of State Summit set for February. The leaders stressed the importance of a joint approach between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) regarding the ongoing peace process in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Additionally, President Ruto advocated for support of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the chair of the AU Commission. His visit to Luanda followed an engagement in Accra, Ghana, where he attended the inauguration of President John Mahama, further underscoring Kenya’s commitment to enhancing trade ties and diplomatic relations regionally. The anticipated waiver of visa requirements alongside the restoration of direct flights represents a strategic advancement in cooperation between Kenya and Angola.
The relationship between Kenya and Angola has recently been marked by efforts to enhance diplomatic and economic ties. The meeting between Presidents Ruto and Lourenço signals a commitment to facilitate travel and improve business relations. The proposed waiver for visa requirements for Kenyans, along with the resumption of direct flights, seeks to not only strengthen bilateral relations but also promote increased movement of professionals and trade between the two countries. Additionally, the discussion of broader continental issues reflects a commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
In summary, Angola’s initiative to exempt Kenyans from visa requirements, coupled with the planned resumption of Kenya Airways’ direct flights to Luanda, represents a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations. The meeting between Presidents Lourenço and Ruto highlights a mutual commitment to enhancing economic ties while addressing broader challenges facing the African continent. The collaboration sets a positive precedent for future diplomatic and trade relations between Kenya and Angola.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
