KIGALI, Rwanda — Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, received a delegation of United States congressional staffers in Kigali on Saturday for discussions focused on the longstanding relationship between Rwanda and the United States and continued engagement with the U.S. Congress.
According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the meeting reviewed bilateral relations that have developed over more than three decades. The discussions highlighted continued diplomatic engagement between Kigali and Washington and the role of congressional dialogue in maintaining communication on issues of shared interest.
The ministry said Nduhungirehe and the visiting delegation exchanged views on what it described as “close and transparent cooperation” between Rwanda and the U.S. Congress. Particular attention was given to engagement with the Africa Subcommittee of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, which addresses American policy and congressional oversight concerning developments across the African continent.
The visit provides another channel for dialogue between Rwanda and U.S. policymakers at a time when the two countries continue to engage on regional security, economic development, health, trade and investment, and diplomatic cooperation. Congressional staff delegations can play an important role in informing lawmakers about developments in partner countries and strengthening institutional communication between legislatures and foreign governments.
Rwanda and the United States have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, with cooperation extending across areas including public health, development, education, economic growth and regional affairs. The latest discussions reflected efforts by both sides to maintain direct communication as their partnership continues to evolve alongside changing regional and international priorities.
The Rwandan government described the relationship with the United States as “strong and longstanding,” emphasizing that it has developed over more than 30 years. The meeting also underscored Kigali’s interest in maintaining regular engagement not only with the U.S. executive branch but also with Congress, whose legislative, budgetary and oversight responsibilities influence American foreign policy.
The congressional staffers’ working visit adds to a series of exchanges between Rwandan and American officials and reflects the continuing importance both countries place on institutional dialogue. While no new agreements were announced following the meeting, the discussions provided an opportunity for the two sides to exchange perspectives and strengthen channels of communication between Rwanda and the U.S. Congress.
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