Amir's visit 'confirms depth of Rwandan-Qatar bilateral relations'

Rwanda government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Rwanda is a milestone that reflects the depth of the strong relations between the two countries. Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Makolo said the visit confirms the growing friendly relations between Qatar and Rwanda, and reflects the two sides' keenness to strengthen the existing partnership further and expand the horizons of cooperation in various fields. Rwanda looks forward to this visit due to its political and economic significance, Makolo said, noting the visit also presents an opportunity to build upon the solid foundations laid by Rwanda President Paul Kagame and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Makolo emphasised that the future of cooperation between the two countries is very promising in light of the strong relations and mutual understanding between the two leaderships. On the prospects for future cooperation, Makolo said the strategic investments made by Qatar in Rwanda is considered a model of fruitful cooperation, adding Rwanda looks forward to achieving more in various fields of mutual interest. She also expressed her country's belief that the visit of His Highness the Amir enhances the prospects for relations between the two countries in a positive and beneficial way for both sides. As for sectors of priority for both countries, Makolo said technology, innovation, energy, and agriculture are important platforms for strategic cooperation, noting that these sectors form a solid foundation for their partnership. She highlighted the importance of diversifying Rwanda's economic activities, indicating that her country can greatly benefit from Qatar's expertise in the energy sector. Developing the agricultural sector is also a priority for Rwanda, she continued, noting that her country sees it as a crucial area for strengthening its partnership with Qatar. She pointed out Rwanda's interest in opening up wider areas of cooperation in these sectors because of their long-term impact on the future of both countries, stressing Rwanda's aspiration for joint investment to achieve economic development that benefits both peoples. Describing the current level of relations between Doha and Kigali as "excellent," Makolo said both countries are continuously working to strengthen and develop those relations. "On the political field, Qatar is a trusted partner. In peace and security, we value the role Qatar is playing in mediating on important global issues, including the ongoing situation in the Great Lakes region," she said, praising Qatar's unique approach in dealing with these issues sustainably, which is highly appreciated by Rwanda. Makolo also stressed that the relationship between the two countries is based on solid foundation that have paved the way for development of extensive cooperation in multiple fields, highlighting the strength of their partnership in the education sector. "We very much appreciate the Zero-Out-Of-School project that is funded by Qatar," she said, noting that building human capacity is a key priority for Rwanda. "We have Rwandan students studying in Qatar, and we would like even more student to go there. That is also a part of our strategy for growing our economy," she continued. Makolo concluded by affirming that relations between the two countries will witness further development in the next stage - both at the political and economic levels, thanks to the shared vision and mutual will to enhance bilateral cooperation. (QNA)QNA 0251 GMT 2025/11/20