Nairobi, Kenya – (African Boulevard News) – France is working towards strengthening maritime cooperation with Kenya. Hervé Berville, the French state secretary for the sea, recently visited the Kenyan coast in late October to lay the groundwork for a potential cooperation deal between the two countries.
Berville’s visit was aimed at fostering greater collaboration between France and Kenya in the maritime sector. With Kenya’s strategic location along the Indian Ocean, the potential for joint ventures and partnerships in maritime activities is significant.
The proposed maritime cooperation deal is expected to cover a range of areas, including maritime security, port infrastructure development, maritime transport, and blue economy initiatives. By sharing knowledge and expertise, both France and Kenya can benefit from improved maritime security, increased trade opportunities, and sustainable economic growth.
According to a report by Africa Intelligence, the French government has been actively seeking to expand its influence in Eastern Africa and the Horn of Africa region. Strengthening maritime cooperation with Kenya is part of this broader strategy, as the country plays a crucial role in regional stability and economic development.
In recent years, Kenya has made significant investments in port infrastructure, including the expansion of the Mombasa port and the development of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor. These initiatives have positioned Kenya as a key player in regional trade and transportation, attracting interest from international partners like France.
The potential benefits of a maritime cooperation deal with France are not limited to economic gains. Enhanced maritime security measures, such as joint surveillance operations and information sharing, could help combat illegal activities such as piracy and drug trafficking in the region.
The French state secretary for the sea, Hervé Berville, emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships during his visit to the Kenyan coast. He stated, “We believe that strong maritime cooperation between France and Kenya will not only bring economic benefits to both countries but also contribute to regional stability and security.”
Industry experts have welcomed the prospect of increased collaboration between France and Kenya in the maritime sector. They believe that such a partnership could lead to the transfer of knowledge and technology, ultimately benefiting Kenya’s blue economy initiatives and contributing to sustainable development.
As negotiations for the maritime cooperation deal continue, both France and Kenya look forward to deepening their ties in the maritime sector. The potential for joint ventures, knowledge exchange, and increased trade opportunities make this collaboration a promising endeavor for both countries and the wider region.
In conclusion, France is taking steps to strengthen maritime cooperation with Kenya, recognizing the country’s strategic location and potential for economic growth. A potential cooperation deal between the two countries is expected to cover a range of areas, including maritime security, infrastructure development, and blue economy initiatives. The partnership holds promise for regional stability, improved trade opportunities, and sustainable development.
