The Cabinet Secretary for Defence of Kenya, Hon. Soipan Tuya, and the Defence Minister of the Netherlands, Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, engaged in bilateral talks resulting in the signing of a Letter of Intent. This agreement focuses on enhancing cooperation in various defence sectors such as Peace Operations, AI, and Maritime Security. Both leaders emphasized the importance of formalizing their collaborative engagement for bolstering the capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
The Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, conducted bilateral discussions with Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, the Defence Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This meeting took place at the International Peace Support and Training Center in Karen, Nairobi. A significant outcome of these discussions was the signing of a Letter of Intent aimed at enhancing defence cooperation between the two nations.
The agreement focuses on several critical areas, including Peace Support Operations, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Maritime Security, Climate Security, and Military Training, alongside the exchange of best practices. Hon. Tuya expressed enthusiasm for the engagement, emphasizing the strengthening of ties between Kenya and the Netherlands through collaboration.
She noted that both nations are engaged in developing a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) and a Status of Force Agreement (SOFA), exchanging drafts to formalize their partnership. Hon. Tuya highlighted that the signing of these documents marks an important commitment to future cooperative efforts, particularly in relation to enhancing the capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
Mr. Brekelmans reaffirmed the Netherlands’ dedication to supporting the KDF, acknowledging Kenya’s vital role in fostering peace and security within the region. He stressed both countries’ commitment to improving the effectiveness of intelligence-led peacekeeping initiatives globally and to promoting responsible use of artificial intelligence in military applications through joint efforts.
Accompanying them were several high-ranking officials, including the Principal Secretary for Defence, Dr. Patrick Mariru, and Lieutenant General John Omenda, Vice Chief of Defence Forces. Also present were Major General Alfred Leuria, Brigadier Joyce Sitienei, and Brigadier Samuel Kimani, among other senior military personnel from both delegations.
In conclusion, the recent bilateral discussions between the Kenyan and Dutch Defence officials highlight a significant step towards formalizing their collaboration. With the signing of the Letter of Intent, both nations are poised to enhance their defence capabilities notably in areas such as peace operations, AI, and military training. This commitment reflects their shared goal of promoting regional stability and security through strengthened defense ties.
Original Source: www.mod.go.ke
