Somalia and Rwanda Sign Comprehensive Cooperation Agreement to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

 

Kigali, October 27, 2025 – In a significant step toward deepening bilateral relations, the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Republic of Rwanda have signed a Comprehensive Cooperation Agreement aimed at enhancing diplomatic, economic, and institutional collaboration between the two nations.

The agreement was officially signed in Kigali by Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Ambassador Abdisaid Muse Ali, and Somalia’s Ambassador to Tanzania and the East African Community (EAC), who also serves as Non-Resident Ambassador to Rwanda, H.E. Ilyas Ali Hassan. On behalf of Rwanda, the agreement was signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Amb. Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe.

Key Objectives of the Agreement

The newly signed pact seeks to strengthen diplomatic and bilateral ties by expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. The key areas of focus include:

Diplomacy and Political Cooperation

Trade and Investment

Institutional Capacity Building

Economic and Developmental Partnerships

This strategic framework underscores the commitment of both nations to foster long-term cooperation rooted in mutual respect, shared interests, and sustainable development.

Enhancing Regional Integration

Both Somalia and Rwanda are active members of the East African Community (EAC), a regional bloc aimed at promoting economic integration and political collaboration across East Africa. The agreement aligns with the EAC’s broader vision of regional unity, stability, and prosperity.

During the signing ceremony, the ministers emphasized the importance of economic growth, peace, and stability as cornerstones of regional progress. The two sides also discussed ways to enhance people-to-people exchanges, cultural diplomacy, and capacity development to empower public institutions in both countries.

A Milestone in African Partnership

Officials from both governments hailed the signing as a historic milestone that paves the way for stronger African partnerships and cross-border collaboration. The accord represents a shared determination to build a modern, resilient, and cooperative future — one that prioritizes peace, governance, and socio-economic advancement.

The Somali Foreign Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations, particularly those that share a vision for regional stability and innovation-led development. Meanwhile, the Rwandan Foreign Minister described the agreement as a reflection of Rwanda’s enduring friendship with Somalia, expressing confidence that it will contribute to regional prosperity and solidarity.

Toward a Brighter Future

This Comprehensive Cooperation Agreement between Somalia and Rwanda marks a new chapter in bilateral relations — one grounded in partnership and mutual progress. It sets the foundation for expanding trade routes, encouraging investment, and fostering institutional reforms that benefit both nations.

As both countries continue to navigate regional and global challenges, this collaboration stands as a model of African-led cooperation, demonstrating that mutual understanding and shared goals can pave the way for lasting peace and sustainable development