Kigali: HE Minister of Trade and Industry of the Republic of Rwanda Prudence Sebahizi affirmed that the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to the Rwandan capital Kigali reflects the depth of relations between the two countries and represents an important milestone in enhancing cooperation across various fields, especially economic and investment sectors.
According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency stated that bilateral relations have grown so fast and are built on mutual trust and cooperation. He highlighted ongoing trade and developmental cooperation, especially in investment. Currently, Qatar Airways is investing in RWANDAIR, and jointly they are investing in the new airport in Rwanda, which is a strategic opportunity for Rwanda to establish itself as a logistic hub, given its geographic location and relations with other African countries.
His Excellency added that trade between Rwanda and Qatar has increased by more than 30 percent, indicating significant potential for future trade. Rwanda exports coffee to Qatar and imports petroleum products and fertilizers. He sees further prospects for cooperation, particularly in logistics, innovation, and ICT.
HE the Minister pointed out that recently signed MOUs cover collaboration in ICT, education, agriculture, innovation, and other areas. These agreements assure growing investment, with the current focus on expanding Kigali International Airport and investments in RWANDAIR.
His Excellency explained that Rwanda is an attractive investment and tourism destination due to its stability and business-friendly environment, earning high rankings in World Bank reports on ease of doing business. This makes Rwanda a leading regional destination for investment in tourism, hospitality, and technology sectors.
In terms of ICT, Rwanda has been at the forefront in the region and continent over the last 25 years, boasting one of the best policy frameworks to promote ICT globally. Rwanda positions itself as a hub for ICT investment.
Rwanda's membership in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) enhances its role as a key economic and trade center, linking regional and international markets. Cooperation with Qatar is seen as a way to expand economic development prospects at both bilateral and regional levels.
Regarding his vision for strengthening cooperation between the two countries, His Excellency expressed optimism about learning opportunities, emphasizing the potential benefits from the shared vision and visionary leadership of both nations.
Concluding his remarks, HE Minister of Trade and Industry Prudence Sebahizi invited Qatari investors to explore Rwanda's promising opportunities, noting the country's political and economic stability and its transparent legal and regulatory frameworks that ensure investor protection. Rwanda is open and ready for business and investment, he assured.