Kenya and the Republic of the Congo have signed comprehensive bilateral agreements aimed at expanding their economic welfare.

The 18 agreements include partnerships in trade and investment, energy, ICT, transport, security, education, tourism, culture, agriculture, the blue economy, among others.

President William Ruto said Kenya and Congo have agreed to abolish visa restrictions to ease movement of people.

He noted that the move will enhance integration and boost trade, adding that Kenya was working towards restoring direct flights between Nairobi and Brazzaville.

He made the remarks on Saturday at the Palais du Peuple in Brazzaville during a media briefing alongside his host President Sassou N'Guesso. 

President Ruto committed to fast-track the opening of a resident diplomatic mission in Brazzaville.

He said joint infrastructure development will significantly improve the region's connectivity and boost investment.

The Head of State told the media that Kenya and Congo will continue cooperating — under the AU and IGAD frameworks — to restore peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Eastern DRC.

"We emphasise the need to maintain peace, security and stability within the region as a prerequisite for development," be said.

Kenya and Congo, he added, have also agreed to take common stands at the global levels on issues affecting the people of the two nations.

The President said the two countries are committed to leveraging on the African Free Continental Trade Area to grow trade whose potential is yet to be exploited.

"We have plenty of room to expand the scale, size and value of commercial activities between our nations," he maintained.

The President argued that Kenya and Congo will work together to confront food insecurity in the region.

"We can make steady progress towards food stability.”.