The signing of the MoU took place during the first official visit to Pakistan by the Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe.

The agreement was announced on Monday, April 21, during a joint press conference in Islamabad with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar. Both sides hailed the visit as a significant milestone in the steadily growing relationship between the two nations.

“This is a historic occasion — the first ever visit by a Rwandan Foreign Minister to Pakistan,” said Dar.

“We held in-depth discussions today, focusing on strengthening our existing ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation. The signing of the MoU in diplomatic training is just the beginning.”

The visit comes on the heels of increased high-level exchanges between the two countries. Pakistan established its High Commission in Kigali in 2021, while Rwanda inaugurated its diplomatic mission in Islamabad in 2024. Both sides view these steps as foundational pillars for deepening collaboration across multiple sectors.

“Our relationship is based on mutual respect and a common drive to work together,” said Minister Nduhungirehe.

“This visit, accompanied by a delegation from the Rwanda Development Board and the Ministry of Trade and Industry, underscores our commitment to doing business with Pakistan.”

The Rwandan minister emphasised that the two countries are actively reviewing additional MoUs in sectors such as education, defence, and trade.

Trade featured prominently in the discussions, with both ministers highlighting opportunities to expand commercial ties. Pakistan currently imports $26 million worth of Rwandan goods annually — primarily tea — and is exploring imports of coffee, avocados, pulses, and horticultural products.

In return, Pakistan, which exports approximately $100 million in goods to Rwanda, sees potential for its pharmaceuticals, textiles, rice, surgical instruments, and sports equipment in the Rwandan market.

“Our economies are complementary,” said Dar. “This provides a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial partnership.”

Rwandan businesses have recently increased their engagement with Pakistan, including active participation in the health, engineering, and minerals exhibition held in Lahore. More engagement is expected at the upcoming Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference and Single Country Exhibition in Addis Ababa next month.

Technology and innovation cooperation

Both countries are eyeing strategic cooperation in technology and innovation. Pakistan, with its growing ICT sector, is keen to support Rwanda’s ambition to become a regional tech hub. Areas under consideration include digital transformation, fintech, e-governance, and innovation platforms for youth.

“Pakistan is ready to collaborate with Rwanda in building digital ecosystems,” said Dar, pointing to potential joint ventures and knowledge exchanges.

On the multilateral front, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to global peace and security. Pakistan and Rwanda are among the top contributors to United Nations peacekeeping missions.

Minister Nduhungirehe praised Pakistan’s role on the UN Security Council and its efforts to address conflicts affecting Africa, particularly in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

“We appreciate Pakistan’s contributions to peacekeeping and conflict resolution,” Nduhungirehe said.

“Rwanda is committed to regional peace, and we will continue to engage in multilateral efforts for lasting solutions.”

The visit concluded with both ministers expressing optimism about the future of Rwanda-Pakistan relations. High-level visits and diplomatic engagements are expected to continue, with both sides prioritising economic development, regional integration, and mutual support at international forums.

“We see in Pakistan not just a partner, but a friend,” said Minister Nduhungirehe. “This visit has laid the groundwork for deeper cooperation that benefits both our peoples.”

Rwanda and Pakistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in diplomatic training, signalling a broader ambition to deepen bilateral ties in trade, technology, and investment.

The signing of the MoU took place during the first official visit to Pakistan by the Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe.

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, stated that Pakistan is ready to collaborate with Rwanda in building digital ecosystems, highlighting the potential for joint ventures and knowledge exchange.