Rwandan President Paul Kagame and French President Emmanuel Macron have discussed relations between Rwanda and France, as the two countries continue to strengthen their ties.
The meeting focused on bilateral cooperation and issues of shared interest, according to a report published by The New Times on Friday, September 11.
The talks come as Rwanda and France have worked to improve relations in recent years after a long period of tension linked to France’s role in Rwanda before and during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Relations between Kigali and Paris have improved under Macron, who visited Rwanda in 2021. During that visit, Macron acknowledged France’s responsibility in the events surrounding the genocide and said France had failed to face its responsibilities at the time.
The latest discussion highlights the continued engagement between the two governments as they look at areas where they can work together.
The meeting also comes at a time when France is seeking stronger partnerships with African countries on issues including development, investment and regional cooperation.
For Rwanda, closer ties with France can support cooperation in areas of mutual interest while maintaining Kigali’s wider diplomatic partnerships.
The Kagame-Macron talks are therefore another sign of the changing relationship between Rwanda and France, which have moved from years of tension towards greater diplomatic engagement.
