Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya, held consultations with European diplomats in Nairobi to address bilateral and global issues of mutual interest.
The meetings, which took place at Raila’s residence in Karen, included separate sessions with Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya, Mr. Gunnar Andreas Holm, and Australia’s High Commissioner, Ms. Jenny Da Rin.
The discussions centered around enduring ties and shared values that bind their nations together, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation on various fronts.
Integral to the talks were deliberations on political, security, economic, and humanitarian support for Kenya and other African countries.
Details of Issues Raila Discussed with Diplomats
Raila and the diplomat discussed the situations in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, stressing the need to find lasting peace in these regions.
The ODM leader also explained his vision for expanded collaboration, particularly pushing for the establishment of a free trade regime across the African continent.
In addition, he provided insights into his candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, outlining his plans to use the position to advance Africa’s interests on the global stage.
In his engagements, Mr. Odinga highlighted areas of focus should he bag the chairmanship, including continental integration, the removal of non-trade barriers, global cooperation, stability, and the facilitation of free movement of goods and people within Africa.
Also Read: Fresh Hurdle for Raila as Another Country Presents AUC Chair Candidate
Current State of Intra-Africa Travel
Raila further expressed his disappointment at the current state of intra-African travel, where reliance on European connections has persisted, and navigating multiple currencies and visa requirements remains a challenge.
“I regret that 60 years into independence, Africans have to fly to Europe to connect to certain parts of Africa and still require multiple currencies and visas to access other African countries,” he said.
The European diplomats in the meeting expressed their faith in Odinga’s suitabilty for the AUC chairmanship and expressied optimism that his leadership would galvanize the continent towards addressing pressing issues and unlocking its full potential.
“The diplomats encouraged Raila in his quest and expressed hope that he would be able to focus the continent on critical matters holding it back,” read the statement released by Raila Odinga secretariat.
Also Read: Boost for Raila as 8 Countries Mobilize Support for His AU Job
They highlighted the role of a strong AU in driving initiatives such as continental free trade, infrastructure development, and enhanced connectivity.
“Both parties agreed on the need for a strong AU to drive potential game changer issues like continental free trade, infrastructure development, open skies and investment in energy and internet connectivity,” read the statement.
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