The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe on Friday, February 6 took stock of Rwanda’s position on the international stage, noting how the country has strengthened its global standing. He was speaking at the second day of the 20th National Umushyikirano Council, a forum for Rwandans to discuss issues of national importance, including national development, unity, and youth empowerment. ALSO READ: How Umushyikirano drives accountability and delivers impact Nduhungirehe said Rwanda is in a strong position within the international community, viewed as a reliable, stable, and respected partner, thanks to the progress and results the country has achieved. Expanding international presence In terms of foreign relations, Minister Nduhungirehe said that Rwanda has steadily expanded its international presence, particularly since the first edition of Umushyikirano in 2003. “At the time, Rwanda had 20 embassies, today that number has grown to 50, across all continents of the world, he said. Likewise, the number of foreign embassies in Rwanda has increased. In the same year, Rwanda had 16 foreign embassies, but now there are 47 of them.” In addition, 22 international organisations have chosen Rwanda as the location for their headquarters.” The country also plays an active role in major international organisations, including the Commonwealth and La Francophonie. ALSO READ: Rwanda backs Mushikiwabo for third term at Francophonie “Rwanda’s role extends to Africa, where it contributes to building a united continent. Many African Union meetings have been hosted in Rwanda, and the President has even been asked to lead a committee responsible for US reforms,” he added According to Nduhungirehe, these efforts underscore Rwanda’s strong and growing international influence. Economic diplomacy Nduhungirehe also noted Rwanda’s efforts in economic diplomacy, aimed at facilitating investment, trade, and exports. “The country has signed agreements with other nations, including bilateral investment treaties and double taxation avoidance agreements, to make business easier.” Diaspora contributions According to Nduhungirehe, beyond fostering unity and patriotism, the diaspora has contributed significantly through remittances. “At the first edition of Umushyikirano, Rwandans abroad sent $9.6 million back home; today, that figure has grown to $520 million, a 52-fold increase,” he said. ALSO READ: Nduhungirehe lauds diaspora role in devt as remittances surpass Rwf700bn “The diaspora also invests in Rwanda and partners with government, with various programmes encouraging them to return and contribute directly to development.” Rwanda’s role in global security On security, Nduhungirehe said Rwanda is a trusted partner of the United Nations in maintaining global peace. The minister said that Rwanda is currently the second-largest contributor of peacekeeping troops in the world, with more than 6,000 personnel deployed in countries including South Sudan and the Central African Republic. ALSO READ: What Rwanda's expanding military diplomacy means “Rwanda is committed to protecting civilians,” Nduhungirehe said. “Simply having UN troops on the ground is not enough, but their main duty should be protecting civilians.” This is also the motivation behind Rwanda's bilateral security agreements and deployments to Mozambique and the Central African Republic.
