By Lauryne Akoth
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has today held consultations with European diplomats in Nairobi to exchange views on bilateral, regional, and global issues.
Among the diplomats who paid a visit to Raila’s Karen home include the Norwegian ambassador to Kenya Mr. Gunnar Andreas Holm and Australia’s High Commissioner Ms. Jenny Da Rin.
Two separate meetings were held whereby both diplomats together with the opposition boss reaffirmed commitment to the historic ties and shared values that link their nations.
Their agenda for the day included discussing ways to further deepen bilateral and continental cooperation on local and global issues of mutual interest.
They reviewed the existing steadfast political, security, economic, and humanitarian support for Kenya and other African countries, including the situation in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo and the need for lasting peace in the regions.
Raila shared his vision for expanded cooperation on other foreign policy priorities, including a free trade regime across the continent with both diplomats.
He further used the engagements to brief the diplomats on his quest for African Union Commission chairmanship and his plans for the continent should he ascend to office.
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.
Raila expressed his remorse over the fact that even after 60 years of independence, Africans still needed to travel to Europe to reach certain parts of Africa and encounter the hassle of dealing with multiple currencies and visas to access other African countries.
The former Prime Minister singled out continental integration, removal of non-trade barriers, global cooperation, stability, and free movement of goods and people as priority areas he would focus on as AUC chair.
The diplomats provided Mr. Odinga with encouragement in his endeavor and expressed optimism that he would succeed in directing the continent’s attention towards the crucial issues that are impeding its progress.
