Angola intends to exempt Kenyans from visa requirements and will facilitate the resumption of direct flights by Kenya Airways to Luanda, enhancing diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries. This initiative emerged from a high-level meeting between President João Lourenço of Angola and President William Ruto of Kenya, focusing on regional peace and cooperation within the African Union.
Angola has announced its intention to exempt Kenyan citizens from visa requirements, following a meeting between the presidents of the two nations. President João Lourenço of Angola hosted his Kenyan counterpart, President William Ruto, in Luanda. This meeting focused on enhancing diplomatic and economic collaboration, with a significant outcome being the anticipated resumption of direct flights by Kenya Airways to Luanda within two months. President Ruto emphasized that this measure will facilitate easier access for Kenyan professionals, particularly educators, to Angola.
Additionally, the two leaders tackled broader issues affecting the African continent, including peace in the Great Lakes region and the reforms needed within the African Union. President Ruto extended an invitation to President Lourenço for a retreat in Kenya, slated for later this month, as a preparatory step for the upcoming AU Heads of State Summit set for February. Regarding the peace process in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, both presidents acknowledged the importance of collaboration between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) to strengthen peace efforts.
President Ruto also sought support from President Lourenço for the candidacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the chairmanship of the AU Commission. Following his trip to Luanda, President Ruto had previously attended the inauguration of President John Mahama in Ghana, reflecting a broader initiative to enhance trade relations and diplomatic ties across the region.
The collaboration between Angola and Kenya marks a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations in the context of African diplomacy. The two countries are focused on enhancing peace and security on the continent, a priority reflected in discussions led by their respective leaders. The exemption from visa requirements and the resumption of direct flights are part of a broader strategy to foster economic cooperation and mutual understanding amongst African nations, particularly in light of ongoing regional challenges.
The decision by Angola to waive visa requirements for Kenyans, coupled with the upcoming resumption of direct flights by Kenya Airways, represents a pivotal advancement in the relationship between the two nations. This initiative not only aims to facilitate travel and professional exchange but also underscores a commitment to collaborative efforts addressing regional peace and security, thereby enhancing diplomatic ties. The engagement between Presidents Ruto and Lourenço demonstrates the proactive stance both countries are taking toward fostering integrated development in Africa, positioning them as key players amid ongoing continental discussions.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
