President Paul Kagame and his Senegalese counterpart, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, on October 18 witnessed the signing of several agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The agreements include the exemption of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic, service, and ordinary passports; a protocol on bilateral cooperation in the fields of agriculture and livestock; a protocol on partnership in the development of strategic programs. ALSO READ: Senegal’s President Faye arrives in Kigali on three-day visit The two countries also signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in correctional services and penitentiary affairs, and a protocol on collaboration in the health sector. Before the signing ceremony, the two Heads of State held a one-on-one meeting during which they discussed ways to deepen collaboration. “Our discussions today reaffirmed our commitment to act on these principles. We also share the vision of a self-reliant, united continent, guided by accountable governance and inclusive development,” Kagame said. He added that Rwanda has learned that transformation is possible through unity, strong institutions, and empowering citizens. “These lessons shape how we approach development domestically and, in our partnerships,” he noted. President Kagame pointed out that he and President Faye share a deep concern for Africa’s future, particularly the vital role of its youth. ALSO READ: Kagame, Senegal president discuss bilateral ties, security “Their talent and resilience are undeniable. Our responsibility is to ensure they have a stable, fair, and innovative environment that enables them to reach their full potential,” he said. Kagame welcomed President Faye’s engagement with Rwandan institutions during his visit, describing it as “an opportunity to explore more areas of collaboration between the two countries.” President Faye said he had long intended to visit Rwanda since taking office, but the trip was delayed due to national and scheduling constraints. He expressed his delight at finally making the visit. “Relations between Senegal and Rwanda are excellent. They are built on a shared vision of development, peace, and solidarity across the African continent,” he said. “The friendship and fraternity between the Senegalese and Rwandan peoples are equally strong,” he added. “Wherever they are, whether in Senegal or Rwanda our citizens feel perfectly at home.” However, he observed that economic and trade relations have not yet matched the strength of political and diplomatic ties. ALSO READ: Rwanda, Senegal sign bilateral air services agreement “The legal framework remains modest, and trade is still very weak. I am convinced that we can do much more in areas such as agriculture, education, health, the digital economy, air transport, urban planning, and sports.” In line with this, he added that he had proposed to President Kagame the creation of a Grand Joint Cooperation Commission to strengthen bilateral collaboration. “On the multilateral front, we share converging views on major continental and international challenges,” Faye said, commending Kagame’s “leadership in the reform process of the African Union” and his “efforts to promote peace and security across Africa.” “Senegal supports all initiatives aimed at bringing peace and stability to the continent, including in the Great Lakes region, while respecting the territorial integrity of all member states,” he added. President Faye also noted Senegal’s readiness to welcome Rwanda’s participation in the Youth Olympic Games, which will be hosted in Senegal next year.
