United states president Joe Biden has extended a warm appreciation to Kenya for answering Haiti’s call to serve as lead nation on the Multinational Security Support Mision.
While speaking to President Ruto on a phone call on Tuesday, October 3, the US Head of State welcomed the United Nations approval of Kenya’s request to deploy police officers in Haiti.
Additionally, the two leaders held a discussion on ways of promoting regional security.
“They welcomed the successful vote at the United Nations Security Council yesterday authorizing the Multinational Security Support to bring relief to the people of Haiti,” a statement from White House read.
Kenya- U.S Strategic Plan
Further, conversations between presidents Biden and Ruto touched on bilateral relations.
According to a statement by President Ruto, Kenya and the US are working to enhance trade relations through the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership agreement (STIP).
In the statement, President Ruto revealed that both countries are in the final stages of formalizing the agreement set to boost bilateral trade between them.
“We are expediting the finalization of a Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) agreement, which will anchor increased trade, boost manufacturing, create jobs and spur investment between our nations.” Said Ruto
“We are particularly keen on partnerships in infrastructure, renewable energy, green manufacturing and empowering Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), a key engine in our economic growth.”
UN Approval for Kenya’s Mission
The phone call came a day after the United Nations voted in favor of Kenya’s proposal to lead a multinational police operation in Haiti.
The 15-member UN Security Council voted to authorize a mission that would guard critical infrastructure such as airports, ports, schools, hospitals, and key traffic intersections in the Caribbean nation.
Also Read: UN Allows Kenya to Send Police to Haiti, Russia China Abstain
Kenya’s Pledge to Haiti
Kenyan security forces are expected to head to Haiti for a year starting January 2024, to combat gang violence that has killed thousands.
Kenya has pledged at least 1,000 police officers, and several other nations are expected to offer other resources.
Also Read: Ruto Takes Firm Stance on Haiti After UN Approval
Reports suggest gangs aligned with political parties have strengthened their grip on the country since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.
No municipal, legislative or parliamentary elections have been held in years, creating a power vacuum.