Discussions between the leaders occurred in Islamabad, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations, capacity building, and improving trade cooperation.

The meeting also addressed the role of the Pakistani diaspora in Rwanda’s development. The Pakistani Embassy in Rwanda played a crucial role in facilitating this visit, the second of its kind in Rwanda’s history on the Asian continent.

In a related development last August, Rwandan President Kagame received 12 new ambassadors, including Pakistan’s Naeem Ullah Khan. Ambassador Naeem emphasized the longstanding relations and friendship between Rwanda and Pakistan, pledging efforts to strengthen this bond. The two nations have previously signed a cooperation agreement in the health sector and security. Amb. Naeem expressed plans to explore additional areas of collaboration, such as trade and investment.

Amb. Naeem also highlighted specific initiatives, including connecting Rwandan tea exporters with Pakistan, facilitating the exchange of medical professionals, and exploring trade opportunities. He emphasized the potential of Pakistan’s large market for Rwandan products, such as tea, while mentioning Rwanda’s need for rice, a commodity Pakistan is known for producing. Additionally, he identified a reciprocal need for avocados, as Pakistan requires them, and Rwanda has a surplus.

In the pursuit of strengthening economic ties, Amb. Naeem outlined plans to encourage Pakistani investors to invest in Rwanda. Furthermore, there is a proposal to establish an industrial park in Rwanda. Overall, the discussions underscored the commitment to deepening cooperation and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between Rwanda and Pakistan.

Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Chief of Staff, General Mubarakh Muganga, on Wednesday, visited Pakistan where he was welcomed by the Pakistani Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jalil Abbas Jilani.