Rwanda’s delegation, led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, included Ambassador to the United States Mathilde Mukantabana, Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa, responsible for international military cooperation, and Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo.

The U.S. team, headed by Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Troy Fitrell, comprised Senior Advisor for Africa Massad Boulos and U.S. Ambassador to Rwanda Eric Kneedler.

Minister Nduhungirehe emphasized that the dialogue establishes a structured framework for regular discussions between the two nations focused on political, economic, security and health pillars.

Ambassador Mukantabana also took to X to highlight the significance of this milestone.

“This week has marked an important step in advancing Rwanda-U.S. relations. Through high-level discussions on an array of topics, we reaffirmed our shared commitment to deepening our cooperation. We look forward to building on this momentum to strengthen our enduring partnership and address common challenges together,” she stated.

The launch follows a U.S.-facilitated signing of the Declaration of Principles between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo on April 25, aimed at promoting stability and cooperation in the Great Lakes region.

Earlier in April, Massad Boulos, during visits to Rwanda and the DRC, reaffirmed U.S. support for development projects and pledged to encourage American investment in the region.

Rwanda and the United States launched a Strategic Bilateral Dialogue to strengthen cooperation across various sectors on April 28, 2025.

Minister Nduhungirehe, Troy Fitrell (left) and Massad Boulos