As the Embassy of Qatar in Rwanda on Thursday, December 11, held the Gulf country's National Day Celebration, officials said the two countries are committed to greater cooperation in various areas.

The celebration held in Kigali in a ceremony attended by Rwandan government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, Qatari nationals, among other guests.

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The Qatari National Day Celebration commemorates the founding of modern state at the hands of Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani.

"This day serves as a reaffirmation of the values of unity, sacrifice, and dedication that he instilled, and which have guided our nation’s progress and continued prosperity," said Ali bin Hamad Al Aida, Chargé d’Affaires of the Qatari embassy in Kigali.

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He noted that under the leadership of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar is experiencing a remarkable phase of comprehensive development founded on innovation, sustainable economic growth, and the empowerment of human potential.

"Despite global challenges and rapid geopolitical shifts, Qatar continues to advance with determination, investing in a prosperous future and earning an esteemed position among leading nations in human development, technology, and environmental sustainability," he said.

"Qatar has firmly established itself as a proactive international partner committed to peace and multilateral diplomacy, believing in the importance of dialogue and cooperation to address shared global challenges. The humanitarian role played by Qatar is evident through its contribution to mediation efforts, relief programs, and development assistance to countries and communities in need around the world."

He added that his country attaches great importance to its relations with African nations, with which it shares historical connections and common values.

"Our bilateral relations with the Republic of Rwanda stand today as an outstanding model of successful partnerships built on mutual trust and shared aspirations," he said.

The progress achieved in recent years across multiple sectors, he said, was crowned by the visit of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, to Kigali in November.

"We also take pride in the continued expansion of cooperation in the fields of defense, security, and investment," he said. "Among the most significant projects is the new Bugesera International Airport, a major infrastructure development that will serve as a key economic hub not only for Rwanda but for the entire East Africa region."

He said he looked forward to broadening this cooperation to encompass technology, digital transformation, and sports—areas that represent important priorities for both of our nations."

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During the ceremony the Rwandan government was represented by Virgile Rwanyagatare, the Director General for Asia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

In his remarks, Rwanyagatare highlighted the strength of Rwanda–Qatar relations and cooperation driving progress across multiple sectors.

"Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, cooperation between Rwanda and Qatar has grown steadily, with more than 15 agreements signed across key sectors," the officials said.

"Aviation and infrastructure have emerged as the most notable areas of collaboration, with Qatar holding a 60% stake in the construction of Bugesera International Airport, an ambitious project set to position Rwanda as a regional hub for trade and investment," he said.

Rwanyagatare added that Qatar Airways’ 49% stake in RwandAir, together with the codeshare agreement between the airlines, has enhanced connectivity between the two countries through direct Kigali–Doha flights, offering access to over 65 global destinations.

"In this regard and in an effort to further our people-to-people ties, Rwanda welcomes Qatar’s decision this year to grant visa-free entry to all Rwandan citizens," he said.

Of equal value, he said, is the partnership in education, social development, and capacity building. Through initiatives such as the "Zero-Out-of-School Children” programme, the Qatar Fund for Development supports thousands of young learners to return to and remain in school.

"When it comes to defense and security, Qatar and Rwanda collaborate through joint training programs, institutional exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives," Rwanyagatare said.

"These efforts strengthen mutual security and stability while enhancing the technical and professional skills of armed forces personnel to effectively address emerging security challenges."

Beyond being a formidable security and development partner, he said "Rwanda regards Qatar as a valued partner in peace."

He noted that through the Doha Process, Qatar is playing an important role in bringing peace and prosperity in the Great Lakes region.