The presentation of letter of credence to H.E. President Moshe Katsav of Israel.

Mr. President,

It is with great honour and privilege that I present to Your Excellency the Letter of Credence by which H.E. President Mwai Kibaki has accredited me to you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kenya. At the same time, permit me to present to you the Letter of Recall of my Predecessor, H.E. Lt. Gen. John Malan Sawe.

Your Excellency, at the outset may I convey to you and Israeli people warm greetings and highest consideration from H.E. President Mwai Kibaki, the Government and the people of Kenya. Kenya and Israeli enjoy warm and cordial relations borne out of the mutual trust and respect.

Kenya is indeed, grateful for the assistance the State of Israel has given her in the various fields of security and development since attaining our independence in 1963. The State of Israel has availed to Kenya and other Sub-Saharan African countries to promote socio-economic development, peace and security and human resource development.

In particular, Kenya has benefited from collaboration with Israel in the sectors of education, medicine, science and technology.

Mr. President,

Trade between Kenya and Israeli has grown substantially, albeit, in the favour of Israel. Great potential however, exists for further expansion. It is incumbent upon our two Governments to refocus their efforts and provide the necessary environment for trade and investment to grow. Israeli investors are welcome to take advantage and invest in Kenya’s liberalized economy.

Investment opportunities exist in diverse fields, including power generation, agriculture and water development, and telecommunication sectors. In addition, East African Community has expanded the market for our trading partners.

Mr. President,

Kenya Government is committed to the fight to combat combat terrorism. As victims, we have taken serious steps to ensure that there is no repeat of such a horrific event. Kenya is hopeful that there will soon come a day the Israeli people will be able to enjoy peaceful co-existence with their neighbours, free of the terror seen in the recent past.

Mr. President,

Finally I am humbled by the honour bestowed upon me by my President to serve as his Ambassador to your great country. It is my sincere hope that the bonds of friendship between our Governments, and Peoples will continue to be strengthened for our mutual benefit in the years ahead.

I thank you.