The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, is in Lomé, Togo, where he participated in a high-level meeting focused on strengthening regional and continental cooperation, as well as supporting the Africa-led peace process aimed at restoring sustainable peace and security in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the wider Great Lakes Region.
ALSO READ: Denmark: Demonstrations Escalate in Opposition to U.S. Plans to Take Over Greenland
Emphasis on African-Led Solutions to Regional Insecurity
Discussions during the meeting underscored the importance of African ownership of peace initiatives, inclusive dialogue, and coordinated action among regional and international partners. Participants highlighted the need to address the root causes of insecurity in eastern DRC through political solutions, trust-building, and collective responsibility to ensure lasting stability in the region.
Bilateral Talks Strengthen Rwanda–Togo Relations
On the sidelines of the meeting, Minister Nduhungirehe held extensive bilateral talks with his Togolese counterpart, Prof. Robert Dussey, Minister of Foreign Affairs. The discussions focused on further strengthening diplomatic relations and expanding cooperation in priority sectors including trade and investment, transport and aviation, education, capacity building, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
ALSO READ: Rwanda Deploys Soldiers to Jamaica to Help Rebuild Infrastructure Damaged by Storm ‘Melissa’
Commitment to South–South Cooperation and African Solidarity
Both ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing South–South cooperation and promoting African solidarity as a means of addressing common development and security challenges. They emphasized the importance of closer collaboration between African nations to unlock economic opportunities and foster regional integration.
Visa Waiver Agreement Signed to Boost Mobility and Exchange
A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a visa waiver agreement for holders of all categories of passports. The agreement is expected to ease the movement of citizens, promote business and tourism, and enhance people-to-people interaction between Rwanda and Togo. Both sides expressed confidence that the agreement will strengthen economic ties, deepen institutional cooperation, and further consolidate the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
