Kenyan president sends envoy to Tinubu, seeks stronger ties
Kenyan President, Williams Ruto, has congratulated the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, on his victory at the February 25 presidential poll, saying he looks forward to working with him.
A statement by Tinubu’s media office on Sunday said the congratulatory message was contained in a personal letter delivered to Tinubu by the special envoy sent by Ruto to discuss areas of mutual interest between Nigeria and the East African country.
Among other things, the Kenyan leader offered to work with Tinubu to consolidate the long-standing relationship between both countries.
The letter was personally delivered by the Kenyan President’s envoy, who is also Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service of Kenya, Felix Koskei, during an audience with the President-elect in Lagos.
The letter partly read, “On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I convey greetings and congratulations to you on your victory, and to the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for their fortitude and maturity in ensuring the successful conduct of the 2023 general elections.
“I wish to applaud the close friendship which exists between our two countries. Kenya and Nigeria share values and aspirations in various sectors, including political, socioeconomic, cultural, diplomatic exchange and indeed hold commonality of views on many continental and international issues.
“I look forward to working with you to champion the cause of our continent, and to strengthen further the historical bonds and friendship that happily exist between our two countries and the people.”
In his response, the President-elect expressed his desire to work with the Kenyan President and other African leaders to champion issues of mutual interest, especially in the areas of economic growth, development and tackling insecurity in line with his agenda for the Nigerian people.
“I intend to maintain that long, cordial relationship between our two countries and continue to pursue the aspiration of our forefathers towards building a stronger and more economically stable Africa.
“If we exchange ideas and inter-relate, it will help our continent. Economic opportunities would be explored for Africa’s growth and security,” Tinubu said.
The president-elect also promised to pay a visit to the East African country at a later time to further explore areas of common interest for the benefit of the two countries and the continent.
Source – Punch
