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U.S. urges more vigilance as WTO talks kick off in Kenya

Xinhua, December 14, 2015 Adjust font size:

The U.S. government has called on delegates attending the World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference scheduled to take place in Nairobi from Dec. 15-18 to be more vigilant due to terror threats.

In its special travel alert to American delegates received by Xinhua on Sunday, the U.S. State Department said there is the opportunity for criminal elements to target participants and other visitors in large public events.

"Large-scale public events, such as the WTO Conference, can be a target for terrorists. U.S. citizens should maintain a high level of security awareness, and enroll in the Smart Travel Environment Programme (STEP) to receive pertinent safety and security information," the travel alert warns.

The alert which expires on Dec. 22 notes that road closures, hotel room shortages and restricted movement in Nairobi's central business district are anticipated at the time of the conference.

"The already congested central business district will see up to 5,000 official WTO delegates. As with past WTOs, protests, rallies, and demonstrations could occur with little notice," it warns.

The notice came as Kenyan authorities said security will be tightened in the city and its environs to ensure that the WTO ministerial conference which kicked off in Nairobi on Tuesday is incident-free.

Nairobi Police Commandant Japheth Koome said some roads will be closed to ensure that the five-day meeting is not disrupted by militants from Somalia or criminals from Kenya.

Koome said the security officers are committed to ensure success of the WTO conference and all security officers are under firm instruction to remain vigilant at all times.

"We will get reinforcement from other counties and we shall be working together with other forces such as prisons, intelligence, Kenya police, CID among others," he told journalists in Nairobi.

But the State Department urged U.S. citizens intending to take part in WTO events to factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.

"U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using public transportation. Be aware of your immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds and crowded places," the alert cautions.

Washington also urged persons with specific safety concerns should contact local law enforcement authorities.

"U.S. citizens should follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor media and local information sources regarding WTO-related developments and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities," the notice reads.

The State Department also called on Americans to be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions, particularly in central Nairobi.

"Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency," the notice urges. Endit