Maritime security cooperation key to India, Kenya engagement: PM Modi

Reiterating that terrorism had emerged as a common challenge to countries across the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hailed the agreements signed between India and Kenya and said that cooperation in field of maritime security was a key aspect of security engagement between the two countries.

"Terrorism poses a common challenge. We agreed to deepen security partnership in cyber security, combating drugs, narcotics and human trafficking.Closer cooperation in field of maritime security occupies an important place in our defence and security engagement," Prime Minister Modi said in a joint statement after the signing of agreements.

Prime Minister Modi and Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta earlier witnessed the signing of seven agreements between India and Kenya, including MoUs on Defence Cooperation and revised Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement.

Prime Minister Modi said bonds between India and Kenya are longstanding, and added that both countries share a common legacy of struggle against colonialism.

"India is Kenya's largest trading partner and the second largest investor here. Even with that there is potential to achieve much more..Kenya's geothermal sector and energy efficiency projects- LED based smart street lighting are areas where we could build our engagement," he said.

He said India's strength in the pharmaceutical sector can be of great help to Kenya which is trying to setup an affordable and efficient healthcare system.

"The multifaceted development partnership is a key pillar of our bilateral relationship. The vibrant culture of PIOs, part of Kenya's rich society, will be showcased in festival of India in Kenya later this year," he added.

Prime Minister Modi earlier today received a ceremonial welcome upon his arrival at the State House here.

He paid homage and laid wreath at the mausoleum of first President of Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta.

He then had a restricted meeting with President Uhuru Kenyatta at the President's Office, followed by a delegation-level talks in the Credential Room and the signing of agreements.