Kenya and Ethiopia stated on Monday (November 19th) that they would work closely together to promote peace and security in the region. The statements came at the technical meeting of the 34th Kenya- Ethiopia Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) which opened yesterday in Nairobi, Kenya.

The two-day Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) meeting will discuss strengthening of bilateral ties in the areas of politics, socio-economics, security and foreign affairs and will culminate in the signing of draft bilateral agreements."Kenya and Ethiopia have agreed to accelerate efforts aimed at searching for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, including consolidation of the gains in Somalia," said Kenya's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, Thuita Mwangi. He added that the meeting would address pending cooperation instruments identified during the 33rd session of the JMC which was held in Ethiopia. Wondimu Asaminew, Director General of the African Directorate of Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that Ethiopia attached great importance to its relations with Kenya.

"A second meeting of senior officials in less than six months underlines the paramount importance of our bilateral cooperation," he said, adding that both nations "are committed to enhancing cooperation on major regional and international issues of interest". Ato Wondimu added that both parties would work together to promote peace and stability in the continent as well as strengthen the institutions of the African Union and of its development program, the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD).