𝗧𝘂𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟳, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰

The Chairperson Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, Hon. Nelson Koech (Belgut) yesterday hosted the Chargé d'Affaires, Republic of Iraq, Dr. Akram Slaiman in a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties through the Parliamentary Friendship Group.

 In the meeting, Dr. Akram Slaiman highlighted the importance of Kenya and Iraq ties, stating that Iraq considers Kenya an important ally in the region.

 “Our Iraqi Embassy serves eight other countries. We consider Kenya to be our gateway into the region," he said.  

 Hon. Koech acknowledged the significance of the relationship between the two countries. He noted that Iraq maintained its embassy over the years.

 "We appreciate that Iraq has maintained its Embassy in Kenya despite numerous challenges," Hon. Koech said.

 Both parties expressed their mutual commitment to establishing a Parliamentary Friendship Group to facilitate ongoing dialogue and collaboration on matters of mutual interest, including security and human rights. 

 "Diplomatic relations through Parliament are of utmost importance to us," Dr. Akram Slaiman added.

 Acknowledging the shared threat of terrorism, the Iraqi Charge' D' Affaires expressed a desire to partner with the country in combating this global challenge. 

 Hon. Koech assured the Iraqi Embassy representative of the Committee's commitment to collaboration.

  "I am confident that this engagement will be the first of many, as we work together to build a stronger and more cooperative relationship between Kenya and Iraq," he added.