Ambassador Al Hajri succeeds the late Misfer bin Faisal Al-Shahwani, who passed away in July 2024, while Ambassador Nakajo replaces Isao Fukushima, who had served since 2023.
Addressing the media after submitting his credentials, Ambassador Al Hajri highlighted the strong ties between Rwanda and Qatar and outlined his priorities for cultural and economic cooperation.
'Qatar and Rwanda have a very special relationship. We'll start by completing the investments already underway, including the new airport and aviation projects, which will form the backbone for future investments,' he said.
Ambassador Nakajo echoed the sentiment, emphasising Rwanda-Japan collaboration across multiple sectors.
'I will commit myself to widening our relationship in any aspect, from economic and business to culture and human exchanges. Rwanda already offers a top business environment in Africa, and I aim to encourage more Japanese businesses to invest here,' he said.
Rwanda's partnership with Qatar includes a planned 49% stake acquisition by Qatar Airways in RwandAir and a 60% investment in the new Kigali International Airport in Bugesera, set to open in 2027. Japan's engagement spans nearly six decades and includes a 14 billion Yen loan to support education and a $20 million water pipeline in Kigali, improving access to clean water.
The accreditation of the two ambassadors underscores Rwanda's expanding diplomatic and economic engagement with Asia and the Middle East, laying the groundwork for deeper investment, cultural exchange, and long-term cooperation.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/new-qatar-and-japan-ambassadors-to-rwanda-outline-their-priorities
