Rwanda anticipates its youth will thrive in a globalised world thanks to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in education signed with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Vincent Biruta, has said.
The deal was signed in Kigali, on Thursday, March 7, during the first Session of the Joint Committee for Cooperation between Rwanda and the United Arab Emirates, during which the two countries explored new avenues for cooperation.
During the signing event, Rwanda was represented by Biruta, while UAE was represented by its Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi.
Biruta said that with the signing of the MoU, the two countries are set to expand their cooperation horizons even further.
"Through this partnership, we aim to bolster educational exchanges, research collaborations, and capacity-building, laying down the foundations for a future where our youth can thrive in a globalised world,” Biruta said in his opening remarks.
Partnership based on mutual respect, shared prosperity
Over the years, Biruta said, Rwanda and the UAE have cultivated a partnership rooted in mutual understanding, respect, and a shared vision for prosperity.
"Our cooperation spans several vital sectors, with notable advancements in trade and investment, security, ICT, and space among others,” Biruta said.
"In terms of economic cooperation, we are glad to note that the UAE is Rwanda’s leading trade partner with total trade crossing the $1 billion mark in 2022 up from $100 million in 2012,” he said.
In the area of security, he said, "Our cooperation has been equally fruitful, enhancing our capabilities to face common challenges, ensuring peace, and reinforcing the stability that is the backbone of our prosperity.”
Meanwhile, later on the same day, President Kagame met with Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi at Urugwiro Village – the presidential office – for discussions on further strengthening collaboration in areas of mutual interest between Rwanda and UAE.
In February 2023, both countries signed an agreement intending to share expertise and successful experiences in promoting institutional excellence, work quality, government innovation, as well as service development.