President Uhuru Kenyatta loves neighbouring Ethiopia more than any other country in the world, Ambassador Meles Alem has claimed.
Kenya and Ethiopia have enjoyed good ties since independence, with the two countries sharing one of the longest borders in the North.
In an interview with the Star on Sunday, the Ethiopian envoy to Kenya said President Uhuru Kenyatta has visited the country more than any other since he took over in 2013.
“We also enjoy excellent political relations. It is evident that President Uhuru Kenyatta has visited Ethiopia more than any other country in his state visits. This can only be attributed to the strong ties,” Meles Alem said as quoted by the Star.
Uhuru's father Jomo Kenyatta was a close friend of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie, whom a road in Nairobi is named after.
Also, Ethiopian embassy is built close to State House Nairobi, and it's the only embassy with a permanent land and house in Kenya.
The ambassador said infrastructure connectivity like electricity and the Lapsset project are game-changers that have provided equal opportunity for trade and investment.
“It is true that trade favours Kenya, but it should be noted that Ethiopia provides a conducive environment for Kenyans. It is a big market with over 100 million people,” he said.
“Kenya has a vibrant private enterprise that has made its way to Ethiopia. Though we might be having small issues to do with security, the environment remains dependable and safe.”
Uhuru last visited Ethiopia in October when he attended IGAD meeting.
Addis Ababa is also headquarters of the African Union.
During the Sunday's interview, Meles said it's because of the close ties that Ethiopia will support Kenya's bid for United Nations Security Council seat in June 2020.