Cabinet Secretary for Defence Hon. Soipan Tuya and Netherlands Defence Minister Mr. Ruben Brekelmans engaged in bilateral talks in Nairobi, resulting in a signed Letter of Intent aimed at strengthening defence cooperation across several key areas including cyber security and military training. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to enhancing capabilities and promoting peace in the region.
On a significant diplomatic front, Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, engaged in bilateral discussions with Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, the Netherlands’ Minister for Defence, at the International Peace Support and Training Center in Nairobi. The parties formally signed a Letter of Intent aimed at enhancing defence cooperation in various key areas including Peace Support Operations, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, Maritime Security, Climate Security, and Military Training.
Hon. Tuya expressed her appreciation for the productive dialogue, emphasizing the potential for enhanced collaboration between the Republic of Kenya and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. She mentioned ongoing efforts regarding a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) and a Status of Force Agreement (SOFA), highlighting the importance of these agreements in solidifying future engagements and enhancing the capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
Mr. Brekelmans reiterated his country’s dedication to supporting the KDF, acknowledging Kenya’s pivotal role in maintaining peace, security, and stability within the region. He outlined the nations’ mutual interest in improving the efficacy of intelligence-led peacekeeping operations globally and in promoting responsible applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in military activities, facilitated by international cooperation.
Noteworthy attendees included Principal Secretary for Defence, Dr. Patrick Mariru; Vice Chief of Defence Forces, Lieutenant General John Omenda; Major General Alfred Leuria, and other high-ranking military officials from both Kenya and the Netherlands, all underscoring the significance of the profound discussions for future military collaborations.
This meeting underscores the commitment of Kenya and the Netherlands to bolster their defence collaborations, particularly in the realms of peacekeeping and technological advancements. The formalization of agreements like the DCA and SOFA represents a critical step towards enhanced military cooperation and capacity building for the Kenya Defence Forces. Both nations reaffirm their dedication to global peace and stability through collaborative efforts.
Original Source: www.mod.go.ke
