Djibouti President Guelleh on two-day state visit to Rwanda

President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti arrived in Rwanda, yesterday morning, for a two-day state visit. President Guelleh—who was welcomed by President Paul Kagame at Kigali International airport—is expected to engage in various state activities in Rwanda aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. Shortly after his arrival, Guelleh toured the Kigali special economic zone, where he visited two factories, including Strawtec Building Solutions, which produces building materials for sustainable structures. Rwanda has designated a plot of land in the industrial zone, to Djibouti “within the spirit of reciprocity,” in return for the 20 hectare plot of land previously offered by the Government of Djibouti in the strategic port zone of Djibouti. Foreign Affairs and Cooperation minister Louise Mushikiwabo welcomes President Guelleh as other officials look on. (Timothy Kisambira) The coastal plot, whose documents of handover to Rwanda were signed in March 2013, is believed to present a big opportunity for Rwanda’s economic ambitions given its strategic location near the autonomous Port of Djibouti (PAID) and Dubai World International Port. Meanwhile, by press time last evening, President Guelleh was also due to be hosted on a state banquet by President Kagame; an event to be attended by a number of government officials and members of diplomatic corps. President Kagame and President Guelleh are expected to address a joint press briefing today at Village Urugwiro in Kigali. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Djibouti President Guelleh on two-day state visit to Rwanda