The signing ceremony was witnessed by President Paul Kagame and his Kazakhstani counterpart Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the Aqorda Presidential Palace in Astana, during President Kagame's official visit to attend the 2025 Astana International Forum (AIF).
The newly signed agreements cover key areas including diplomatic and political consultations, information and communication technology (ICT), education, agriculture, finance, and mining, reflecting both countries' commitment to shared development goals.
Earlier in the day, President Kagame received a warm welcome, including a ceremonial guard of honour. He later held high-level bilateral talks with President Tokayev, beginning with a private tête-à-tête, followed by expanded discussions involving both leaders' delegations.
In his remarks, President Kagame lauded Kazakhstan's impressive development trajectory and rising influence on the global stage.
'Kazakhstan has made remarkable strides in national development, matched by a growing and constructive role on the world stage. This speaks to your leadership, Mr President, and to the determination of the Kazakh people,' he stated.
'In Rwanda, we know that such progress is built over time through good governance and working with the right partners. That is why we are here," he added.
President Tokayev commended Rwanda's institutional resilience and strong economic performance, particularly its recent 8% economic growth rate. He also reaffirmed Kazakhstan's commitment to strengthening ties with African nations.
The two leaders' discussions highlighted priority areas for future cooperation, including trade, investment, transport, digitalisation, e-government services, and sustainable agriculture. Both leaders agreed on the importance of leveraging their countries' respective strengths to foster mutual progress and global collaboration.
The strategic agreements signed today are expected to serve as a foundation for robust cooperation, facilitating knowledge exchange, private sector partnerships, and policy alignment between Rwanda and Kazakhstan in the years ahead.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
