Macron Urged to Extend Visa Validity for Kenyans

The National Assembly’s Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee has called on French President Emmanuel Macron to consider extending the validity period of visas issued to Kenyans.

They say the move would significantly strengthen trade, investment, and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The appeal was made during a meeting between members of the Committee, led by Vice-Chairperson Hon. Bashir Abdullaih.

A delegation from the French National Assembly, headed by the Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs Committee, was also present.

Bilateral Cooperation Between Kenya And France

The French delegation is in the country for the Africa Summit and held discussions with Kenyan legislators on ways of deepening bilateral cooperation.

The talks come in the wake of the signing of a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) between the Government of the Republic of Kenya and the Government of the French Republic.

This pact is expected to enhance collaboration in defence and security matters.

Bashir noted that the recently signed agreement had opened up opportunities for increased engagements between the two nations and stressed the need for more flexible travel arrangements.

“You need to ensure that our visas do not expire after one month, as the Defence Cooperation Agreement that we signed recently has created an avenue for more interactions between Kenya and France,” said Bashir.

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France Urged To Expand Economic Partnerships

Committee members further urged France to expand economic partnerships with Kenya through increased investments and job creation initiatives.

Hon. Anne Muratha called on the French delegation to encourage investors and companies from France to establish businesses in Kenya.

Anne said such investments would help tackle unemployment among young people.

“With the signing of the DCA, we are forming a stronger relationship than we ever had. We have a large number of hardworking youth who are unemployed, and I would want to encourage you to invest heavily here and open up job opportunities to our young people,” said Muratha.

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Progress Of EAC Member States

The French legislators also sought to understand the progress made by East African Community (EAC) member states in advancing regional integration, particularly in trade and economic cooperation.

In response, Hon. Joshua Kandie (Baringo Central) said EAC member states continue to enjoy strong economic ties.

He highlighted the bloc’s no-visa policy that allows citizens to travel freely within member countries.

Hon. Kandie further emphasized the importance of European companies exploring investment opportunities not only in Kenya but also across the East African region.

The meeting underscored the growing diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and France.

Leaders from both sides expressed optimism that enhanced cooperation in defence, trade, and investment would deliver mutual benefits for their citizens.

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