Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has held talks with Russian Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov to advance plans for establishing an intergovernmental commission aimed at strengthening economic cooperation between Kenya and Russia.
The proposed Kenya-Russia Commission on Economic Cooperation is expected to provide a formal platform for expanding bilateral trade, attracting investments and strengthening partnerships across key economic sectors.
Mudavadi announced the development following his meeting with Reshetnikov in Moscow, where discussions focused on translating the two countries' longstanding diplomatic relations into practical economic opportunities.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary, who also serves as Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, said Kenya was seeking to deepen its relationship with Russia to deliver tangible benefits to businesses and ordinary citizens.
"Strong international friendships must translate into stronger economies, thriving businesses and more jobs for our people. Kenya is taking its partnership with Russia to the next level," Mudavadi said.
He noted that the proposed commission would create opportunities for Kenyan exporters, entrepreneurs and industries by providing a structured mechanism for identifying areas of mutual economic interest.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen engagement between government institutions and businesses in both countries, potentially opening new markets for locally manufactured products and Kenyan exports.
Mudavadi said the discussions were building on President William Ruto's recent visit to Moscow, which provided fresh momentum for strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between Nairobi and Moscow.
The government is seeking to leverage the existing diplomatic relationship to attract foreign investment, support local enterprises and expand Kenya's access to international markets.
The proposed commission would also provide a framework for sustained discussions on trade barriers, investment opportunities and cooperation in sectors where the two countries have shared interests.
For Kenya, stronger economic engagement with Russia could offer opportunities to diversify export destinations, attract additional investment and create employment, particularly for young people.
However, the proposed commission is still at the planning and advancement stage, with further engagement between the two governments expected to determine its structure and operational framework.
Its establishment would mark another step in Kenya's efforts to broaden its international economic partnerships and strengthen commercial ties beyond traditional trading partners.