By Peter Ochieng
National Assembly Speaker, Moses Masika Wetang’ula on Wednesday hosted Ibrar Husnain Khan, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Kenya, at his Parliament Buildings office.
The two leaders engaged in fruitful deliberations on various matters of mutual interest, including enhanced Parliamentary engagements between the two nations.
Speaker Wetang’ula said that the meeting marked a significant moment in the diplomatic relations between Kenya and Pakistan, signaling deep ties and mutual interests shared by the two countries.
According to a despatch from Parliament, they explored avenues to strengthen cooperation not only between Kenya and Pakistan, but also within the broader East African region.
“Pakistan has been a longstanding trading partner of Kenya, with our tea being a major export to their country,” said Wetang’ula.
High Commissioner Khan echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of Kenya as a strategic partner for Pakistan in Africa, emphasizing the shared goals of both countries in promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional stability.
During the meeting, both leaders expressed optimism about the future of Kenya-Pakistan relations.
They pledge to continue working closely to explore new opportunities for collaboration, particularly in trade, investment, and education.
“Today’s discussions reaffirmed our commitment to enhancing this relationship further, ensuring that both nations continue to benefit from our trade and diplomatic ties,” said the High Commissioner.
Speaker Wetang’ula underscored the importance of such engagements, noting that they play a crucial role in fostering international partnerships and driving economic development, as Kenya continues to position itself as a key player in the East African region,
The longstanding relationship between Kenya and Pakistan, Wetang’ula said, serves as a testament to the benefits of sustained diplomatic efforts and mutual cooperation.
Speaker Wetang’ula later visited the Embassy of Iran to personally express his sincere condolences to the people of Iran, following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi and high-ranking officials in a tragic helicopter crash, on Sunday.
“I relieved memories of my interaction with the late President when he visited the Mausoleum of the founding Father of the nation, the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta at Parliament buildings to lay a wreath,” the former Bungoma Senator said.
Ebrahim Raisi will be buried on Thursday.