Rwanda and Mali seek to deepen bilateral cooperation following high-level talks

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, has met Mali’s President, General Assimi Goïta, to discuss expanding cooperation between the two countries and accelerating the implementation of signed agreements.

Nduhungirehe, who is on an official working visit to Bamako, was received by President Goïta on the afternoon of October 13, 2026.

In a social media post on October 14, Nduhungirehe said his discussions with Goïta focused on how the two countries could continue working together to address security challenges.

During a meeting with his Malian counterpart, Abdoulaye Diop, Nduhungirehe said the two countries shared several experiences, including having faced serious security challenges while choosing to prioritise national sovereignty and the safety of their citizens.

He stressed the importance of Rwanda, Mali and other African countries continuing to cooperate in strengthening state institutions and the capacity of security agencies as a foundation for sustainable development.

Nduhungirehe also said cooperation should extend beyond government institutions to encourage stronger ties between the private sectors of both countries, particularly in trade and investment.

“Such cooperation can be advanced through a business forum bringing together Rwandan and Malian businesspeople and investors, allowing it to go beyond the activities of joint government commissions,” he said.

The Rwandan minister further emphasised that Rwanda and Mali would continue working together in international organisations, including the United Nations, to support one another and strengthen Africa’s voice on the global stage.

Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, said the two countries shared a similar vision regarding African integration and cooperation among African nations.

Diop described Rwanda as an example for Mali, citing its ability to rebuild following a difficult history, particularly in development and national reconciliation.

He said Mali had also chosen to take responsibility for its own security and mobilise its domestic capabilities to address the challenges it faces.

“We agreed to step up efforts to strengthen cooperation and understanding between our two countries,” Diop said.

The visit comes as relations between Rwanda and Mali continue to expand. The two countries have signed approximately 20 agreements covering various sectors and have committed to further strengthening cooperation and trade.

In 2027, Mali is expected to host the second session of the Joint Commission between the two countries, alongside a business forum aimed at making economic development a central pillar of their bilateral relationship.

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