Huye- The Governor of the Southern Province, Alphonse Munyentwari, and his Burundian counterpart from Ngozi Province, Claude Nahayo, Wednesday, held a meeting to discuss bilateral cooperation between the two provinces.

The meeting held in Huye District, addressed issues related to security as well as cultural and economic exchange.

Munyantwari, told The New Times that they agreed on common measures to stop trans-border crimes, including theft, murder and illegal trade.

Reports of theft and murder are rife in areas bordering Burundi, especially in Kigembe and Mukindo sectors of Gisagara District, with local residents accusing Burundians of being behind the crimes.

The two governors agreed to address security in their respective borders.

"We want to put an end to crimes which involve people across the borders of the two countries. We have agreed to share information and involve grassroots residents of both countries in the interest of security,” Munyantwari said, shortly after the meeting.

"We will sensitise residents to always inform authorities whenever they suspect someone of being involved in illegal activities”.

The Governor of Ngozi noted that joint efforts will improve security at the borders.

"Without peace and security, there is no development, good governance, or good relationships between our people. We are, altogether, committed to stopping troublemakers in the area around the borders,” Nahayo observed.

Apart from security, the two leaders also discussed issues related to economic and cultural exchanges. The two parties agreed to send teams on study tours to learn from each other.

The Governors hailed the good relationship between the two countries and the cooperation among residents.

A similar meeting between the two provinces was last held in May 2009.

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