Hon. Soipan Tuya and Mr. Ruben Brekelmans held constructive bilateral talks in Nairobi, signing a Letter of Intent to enhance Defence Cooperation. The agreement focuses on Peace Support Operations, AI, Cyber Security, and more. Both officials emphasized mutual commitments to capacity building and international collaboration in military operations.
On November 15, 2023, the Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, engaged in bilateral discussions with the Minister for Defence of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, at the International Peace Support and Training Center located in Karen, Nairobi. Their dialogue culminated in the signing of a Letter of Intent between the respective Ministries of Defence, signaling a commitment to enhanced collaboration.
The signed agreement aims to fortify Defence Cooperation across several critical areas, including Peace Support Operations, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Maritime Security, Climate Security, and Military Training. Hon. Tuya articulated the importance of these discussions, acknowledging the existing collaborative efforts between Kenya and the Netherlands in drafting a Defence Cooperation Agreement and a Status of Force Agreement.
Hon. Tuya emphasized the significance of formalizing these arrangements, which will facilitate structured cooperation for future operations. She highlighted the crucial role of such partnerships in enhancing the capacity of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) through sustained military engagement and the sharing of best practices.
Mr. Brekelmans reiterated the Netherlands’ dedication to augmenting the capabilities of the KDF, citing Kenya’s pivotal role in fostering regional peace and stability. He underscored the mutual commitment to the effectiveness of intelligence-led peacekeeping globally and the ethical application of artificial intelligence within military contexts.
In attendance at these pivotal talks were several high-ranking officials, including the Principal Secretary for Defence, Dr. Patrick Mariru, Vice Chief of Defence Forces, Lieutenant General John Omenda, and various senior military officers from both nations, indicating the high level of importance placed on this collaboration.
The bilateral talks between Kenya and the Netherlands mark a significant step in enhancing defence cooperation, particularly in key areas such as peace operations and artificial intelligence. The formalization of commitments through the Letter of Intent signifies mutual dedication to capacity building and effective military collaboration. As both nations continue to engage, their shared goals may lead to stronger regional and international security frameworks.
Original Source: www.mod.go.ke
