This archive report was first published on 16 October 2019.
On Wednesday, Israeli Ambassador Joseph Oded met with Deputy President William Ruto in Nairobi to discuss Kenya's bid for the UN Security Council seat. The meeting took place in the Deputy President's Karen office.
According to Ambassador Oded, Israel has officially made its stand to support Kenya's bid for the UN Security Council non-permanent seat for 2021-2022. He noted that Kenya has proven its ability to play an important role in matters of regional security.
“Israel has officially made its stand to support Kenya’s bid for the United Nation’s Security Council non-permanent seat for 2021-2022. This is because Kenya has proven it can play an important role on matters of regional security,” said Mr Oded.
Dr Ruto had asked Israel to support Kenya's bid, highlighting the critical role the UN Security Council plays in maintaining international peace and security. He emphasized that Kenya would continue to play a leading role in peace, security, and conflict management not only in the Horn of Africa but also in other parts of the world.
“As a country, we appreciate support from Israel in terms of security cooperation that has been beneficial in the fight against terrorism activities in Somalia and the Horn of Africa. This is a global threat that we must work together to eliminate it,” said Dr Ruto.
The meeting also touched on the Kulalu-Galana irrigation project in Tana River, which Ambassador Oded described as a potential game-changer for food security if implemented successfully.
Meanwhile, Dr Ruto reiterated Kenya's commitment to pursuing a peaceful and amicable solution to the maritime dispute with Somalia. He emphasized that dialogue was the key to achieving a win-win solution for both countries.
