Kenya’s National Assembly is set to collaborate with Switzerland’s parliament to enhance trade relations and foster economic growth between the two countries. This partnership was unveiled by Speaker Moses Wetangula, who announced that a delegation of Swiss parliamentarians will visit Kenya in January to formally launch the initiative.
This significant announcement came during a courtesy call made by the Swiss Ambassador to Kenya, Mirko Giulietti, to the Speaker’s office at Parliament Buildings. During their discussions, Wetangula highlighted the potential for increased trade between the two nations, emphasizing that Switzerland could offer Kenya valuable market opportunities through a free trade agreement. The Speaker was optimistic that this engagement would not only boost the Kenyan economy but also create a platform for deeper collaboration between the two countries.
The partnership is part of ongoing efforts by Kenya to diversify its trade relations and establish stronger ties with European nations. Through the creation of a Parliamentary Friendship Group, both countries’ legislative bodies will be able to work together more effectively. Wetang’ula underscored the importance of such bilateral partnerships, noting that the free trade agreement would provide Kenyan businesses with access to the Swiss market, which is known for its robust economy and financial stability.
“The free trade initiative offers immense potential for Kenya to benefit from Swiss market opportunities,” said Wetang’ula. “This partnership will add significant value to both countries and create new avenues for economic cooperation.”
Swiss Ambassador Giulietti also reiterated his country’s commitment to strengthening ties with Kenya. He mentioned that the scheduled visit by Swiss parliamentarians is a key step in deepening diplomatic and trade relations between the two nations. The Swiss lawmakers’ visit is set to kick off formal discussions regarding the details of the free trade agreement and how both countries can benefit from closer economic integration.
Wetang’ula further noted that despite the Kenyan National Assembly being on recess during the planned visit, he would ensure that Members of Parliament are mobilized to meet with their Swiss counterparts. This will provide MPs with an opportunity to engage in productive dialogue that could lead to mutually beneficial agreements.
The Speaker also took the opportunity to highlight the similarities between Kenya and Switzerland. Both countries serve as important hubs for international diplomatic missions, with Nairobi being home to several embassies and regional offices of international organizations. Wetang’ula informed the ambassador that he had appointed a team of parliamentary lawyers to develop a legal framework based on Switzerland’s model for managing Nairobi City, hoping to emulate the Swiss approach to urban management and governance.
The two leaders also discussed Switzerland’s well-known neutrality in international conflicts, which has positioned the country as a global center for diplomacy and peace negotiations. Wetang’ula praised Switzerland’s diplomatic approach, noting that it made the country an ideal partner for Kenya in international cooperation.
In his remarks, Ambassador Giulietti expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he had received in Kenya. He acknowledged that his visit was an important part of his efforts to familiarize himself with Kenya’s political landscape and seek support from the National Assembly in strengthening bilateral ties. Having only been in Kenya for three months, the ambassador emphasized the importance of fostering goodwill and collaboration between the two countries’ governments and parliaments.
The upcoming visit by Swiss lawmakers marks the beginning of what is expected to be a fruitful and dynamic partnership. Both countries are poised to benefit from increased trade, enhanced diplomatic relations, and a greater exchange of ideas that will promote economic and social development. As Kenya positions itself as a key player in regional and global trade, this partnership with Switzerland is expected to serve as a model for future international collaborations.
