Nairobi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today offered India’s experiences and expertise to Kenya to help it fulfill its developmental priorities, in the sectors it chooses and the speed it prefers.

“We (India and Kenya) have a thriving economic and commercial relationship. But, it is not a temporary or transactional relationship. It is a time-tested bond, built on the foundation of shared values and shared experiences,” he said addressing a banquet hosted in his honour by Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“Our experiences and expertise are available for Kenya’s benefit,” he added.

Modi said India is ready to join hands with Kenya in fulfilling its development priorities “in sectors of your choosing and at a speed that you prefer”.

He said the sectors could be agriculture or health care; needs of education, vocational education or training; development of small businesses; renewable energy or power transmission; or building of institutional strengths.

Modi noted that bith India and Kenya have young populations and both cultures value education.

“Now is the time for skill development,” he said, quoting a Swahili proverb “Elimubilaamali, kamantabilaasali” which means “Knowledge without practice is like wax without honey”.

Observing that Kenya and India have always worked for world peace, Modi said, “We can also unite our efforts with other developing countries, not just for the well-being of the weak and the poor. But, also to help preserve our Mother Earth.”

He said India and Kenya can learn from each other in the crucial area of conservation of natural assets.