Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru has today hosted officials from MEDEF International, a leading consortium of French companies dealing with technology, defence and security equipment.
The PS noted that Kenya and France have a long history of cooperation spanning several decades in various areas of mutual interest adding that the meeting aimed at enhancing collaboration for sustainability of the partnerships.
Mr Mariru pointed out that Kenya was an Anchor State in the East Africa region due to its geo-political position saying that is why it has taken a leading role in peace, security and stability by contributing troops Somalia, Democratic Republic of Congo as well as sending monitoring team in Ethiopia and South Sudan conflict.
The PS affirmed that there was a wide range of opportunities if the partnership between the two countries was fully exploited.
During the meeting held at the Defence Headquarters, the Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General Francis Ogolla noted that France has been a long companion for Kenya having worked closely with the Ministry of Defence previously in an array of areas
Lt Gen Ogolla, a beneficiary of the French War College in 2006 urged the officials to ensure skills and technology transfer for every contract MEDEF is awarded by incorporating training for Kenyans to add value in the current expansion and modernisation of KDF equipment and infrastructure.
He noted that terrorism has become not only a regional threat but a global challenge and urged for collaboration in combating terror.
MEDEF International Chief Executive Officer, Philippe Gautier noted Kenya is a strategic partner due to its geopolitical position adding that they shall continue to collaborate in the field of security, water and infrastructure.
He said the firm aims at promoting cooperation among countries in Africa especially in the security domain adding that they are working on a number of projects with Kenya.
MEDEF is a consortium of 22 companies, 12 of which are startups and aims at promoting know-how abroad through collective actions by supporting trade, investments and technology.
Meanwhile, the VCDF also held talks with the United States Deputy Commander for Civil-Military Engagements, Ambassador Andrew Young where they discussed a variety of issues among them peace, security and stability of the East African Region.
The leaders further discussed areas of possible collaboration and partnerships to combat terrorism threats and other security challenges in the Horn of Africa.
The leaders discussed and agreed to continue broadening and deepening collaboration and partnership for the mutual benefit of the peoples of the two countries.
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