New York: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met President of Kenya William Ruto on the sidelines of the High-Level Segment of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York today.

According to Press Information Department, the leaders reviewed the state of Pakistan-Kenya relations and expressed satisfaction at their positive trajectory. They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding and cordial ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan’s desire to deepen bilateral cooperation in political, economic, trade, defense, education, and people-to-people domains.

In the economic sphere, the Prime Minister emphasized the potential for enhancing bilateral trade and investment, particularly in pharmaceuticals, textiles, surgical instruments, agriculture, and other areas of mutual interest. He encouraged greater interaction between the business communities of the two countries and invited Kenyan investors to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan, including in Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Prime Minister Sharif also highlighted Pakistan’s interest in engaging with the East African Community (EAC). The meeting allowed for an exchange of views on regional and global developments, including sustainable development and international peace and security.

President Ruto praised Pakistan’s mediation role in the recent crisis in West Asia and the Gulf region. Emphasizing the importance of regular high-level engagement, both sides agreed to strengthen existing institutional mechanisms of bilateral cooperation, including the Bilateral Political Consultations and the Joint Ministerial Commission.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed his best wishes for the progress and prosperity of the Kenyan people and expressed confidence that Pakistan-Kenya relations would continue to grow in strength and substance.