Rwanda and Mali have discussed strengthening bilateral relations, with a focus on security cooperation, regional stability and collaboration in international affairs.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, held talks with his Malian counterpart, Abdoulaye Diop, in Bamako, Mali’s capital, during an official working visit on October 13, 2026.
In a post shared on X on Tuesday morning, Nduhungirehe said the discussions focused on strengthening relations between the two countries and expanding cooperation on issues of mutual interest.
“Our discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in international forums and addressing peace and security issues in the regions where our two countries are located, as well as across the African continent,” Nduhungirehe said.
The two ministers also explored ways to deepen bilateral ties and expand collaboration in addressing shared challenges, particularly those related to promoting peace and security.
During his visit, Nduhungirehe also met Mali’s Minister of National Reconciliation, Lieutenant General Ismaël Wagué, to discuss efforts to promote unity and reconciliation among the Malian population.
Rwanda has developed extensive experience in national unity and reconciliation following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The country has established various programmes and institutions aimed at rebuilding trust, strengthening social cohesion and promoting unity among Rwandans.
These initiatives have formed part of Rwanda’s broader efforts to support national recovery and development.
Mali, meanwhile, continues to face security challenges and conflict, making peacebuilding, reconciliation and national cohesion important elements of efforts to achieve lasting stability.
Rwanda-Mali Relations
Relations between Rwanda and Mali have expanded over the years, particularly since Mali opened its embassy in Rwanda in February 2017.
In 2023, the two countries signed agreements across several sectors, laying the groundwork for broader bilateral cooperation.
In 2024, Rwanda and Mali signed 19 agreements aimed at promoting inclusive development and strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
The latest discussions in Bamako underscore both countries’ interest in further developing their partnership, particularly in security, peacebuilding and regional cooperation.
