Kenya, Israel sign deals on health, immigration to boost ties

Kenya and Israel on Tuesday signed agreements on immigration and health during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Kenya.

Speaking after talks with Netanyahu in Nairobi, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said the 50-year relationship between Kenya and Israel was set to be strengthened after the two countries signed more pacts and agreed to work more closely on security issues.

"The agreements will allow us to build the capacity of our health systems and professionals in the area of emergency preparedness and resources as well as specialised medical services," Kenyatta said during a joint news conference.

Netanyahu arrived in Nairobi on Monday night for a three-day visit as part of his African tour, which has taken him to Uganda.

Kenyatta said the future of Kenya-Israel friendship was bright and would bring more development and improved security for Kenyans.

"Kenya will benefit in terms of training, equipment, technology and strategic intelligence," he said.

On his part, Netanyahu said Israel viewed Kenya as its best partner in Africa and that the two countries shared common opportunities.

Netanyahu said Israel had been supporting Kenya in fighting terrorism and sharing intelligence information with Kenya.

Kenya has suffered several bloody attacks by Somalia-based Al-Shabaab militants in recent years.

Netanyahu said Israel would work with Kenya to gain itself a foothold in Africa as the continent rises economically.

Netanyahu pushed for Kenya to back Israel's bid to be granted an observer status at the African Union, for which Kenyatta pledged full support.

During the meeting, Kenyatta also spoke about the peace process between Israel and Palestine, adding Kenya was for sustainable solution. Endit