India, Kenya Sign 7 Pacts; To Deepen Cooperation In Security

He said he and Kenyatta agreed the economies of the two countries can benefit more "if we nurture greater intensity of commercial links; take steps towards a more diversified trade basket; and expand our investment ties further." 

This, he said, would also enable greater regional economic prosperity. 

"In this, while governments would play their part, it is the businesses of the two countries that have a key role and responsibility to drive our commercial partnership," he added. 

The Prime Minister said India and Kenya are two developing countries and also two innovation societies. 

"And, the important part is that whether it is the process, products or technologies, our innovations are relevant not just to our societies. They also help improve the lives of people in other developing countries," he said. 

He said the success of M-Pesa, a mobile phone-based money transfer, financing and microfinancing service, is one such classic innovation that has empowered millions the world over. 

"The multifaceted development partnership is a key pillar of our bilateral relationship. Our development priorities are more or less aligned. As true and trusted partner, India is ready to share its development experiences and expertise, and concessional credit and capacities to assist in Kenya's development objectives," Modi said.
"We look forward to early implementation of the Indian 

lines of credit for projects in agricultural mechanization, textiles and the development of the small and medium sector," the Prime Minister said. 

"We are also encouraged by the progress in the power transmission project under an Indian line of credit of 60 million dollars," he said. 

Kenya's highly successful eothermal sector, and energy efficiency projects such as LED based smart street lighting, are a couple of new areas where the two countries can build their engagement, Modi said. 

Noting that health care is President Uhuru's key priority, he said India, with strengths especially in pharmaceuticals, can join hands with his priorities to shape an affordable and efficient healthcare system in Kenya. 

In this regard, he said the prestigious Kenyatta National Hospital will soon have the state of the art made in India cancer therapy machine - Bhabhatron. 

"We are also donating essential medicines and medical equipment for Kenya's public health system, including for the treatment AIDS," said Modi who also donated some field ambulances to Kenya today. 

He said India is also ready to partner with Kenya in the fields of education, vocational education and skill development. 

Modi also announced that Festival of India will be held in Kenya later this year to showcase the vibrant Indian culture, which is already a part of Kenya's rich society. 

Kenyatta added that his country is keen to have cooperation in the field of sports, with India having expertise in cricket and Kenya in athletics. 

He told Modi that Kenya is his "second home" as he emphasised that people-to-people contacts are the bedrock of the bilateral ties.

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