Kenya and the Russian Federation Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
This was made during a meeting between foreign affairs Principal Secretary Korir Singoei and the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Kenya Vsevolod Tkachenko,
The talks also touched on the safety and rights of Kenyan citizens living in Russia. Kenya expressed its concern over global reports of forced recruitment of foreign nationals into military service.
In response, the Russian Federation assured Kenya of its policy of zero tolerance towards involuntary recruitment of non-nationals into its security forces.
Both sides also expressed interest in establishing a structured framework for regular migration, to facilitate greater mobility and legal pathways between the two nations.
The meeting, held in Nairobi, focused on enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, deepening diplomatic engagement, and safeguarding the welfare of Kenyan nationals residing in Russia.
“We reviewed the current state of our bilateral relations and underscored the mutual desire to deepen engagement in areas of shared benefit,” said Singoei.
Kenya also extended its appreciation to Russia for its longstanding solidarity with Africa since the colonial era, as well as its support for the continent and Kenya in various multilateral forums.
A significant portion of the discussion addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Kenya reiterated its principled stance on peace and urged for a diplomatic resolution to end the war.
“I requested Ambassador Tkachenko to convey Kenya’s desire to see the conflict resolved through a negotiated process to bring an end to the suffering of innocent populations,” the official added.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and the protection of citizens’ rights in both countries.
This comes in the wake of reports dozens of Kenyans had joined the Russian and sent to the frontline to fight in Ukraine.
At least three Kenyans who had joined the military and war were rescued and brought back to the country.
At least 22 other Kenyans were rescued from a house as they prepared to leave Russia to join the mission.
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