President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday bade farewell to Cuban Ambassador to Kenya Ernesto Gomez Diaz who has finalized his tour of duty.
Speaking during the brief event at State House, Uhuru commended Ambassador Diaz for the deepening relations between Kenya and Cuba especially in the health sector.
“It was a great pleasure to have had you here. You have done a lot to strengthen ties between our countries. It is through your efforts that every Kenyan knows about Cuba because of the Cuban doctors,” Uhuru said.
“We have done well in the health sector and we can do so in sports and other fields of human development.”
Uhuru assured the outgoing envoy of Kenya’s continued partnership with Cuba on the global stage especially in the campaign for the lifting of international sanctions against the island nation.
“Equally be assured of our commitment for Cuba in all international fora. Bilateral and multilateral relations are key to us as we work towards the lifting of sanctions,” he said.
Diaz expressed gratitude for the support he received during his tenure and assured the President of Cuba’s deep commitment to the expansion of bilateral ties between the two nations.
He said his country will continue to offer training to Kenyan doctors pointing out that Cuban malaria experts had already arrived in Kenya.
Diaz thanked Uhuru for playing a crucial role in efforts aimed at lifting sanctions against Cuba.
“We will continue with the exchange of doctors, and also appreciate your efforts towards the lifting of sanctions against Cuba,” Diaz said.
Uhuru also held talks with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair who paid him a courtesy call. BY THE STAR