Rwanda and Benin are seeking to broaden cooperation in security, trade, investment and technology as Benin’s new president, Romuald Wadagni, holds talks with President Paul Kagame during a two-day visit to Kigali.
Wadagni met Kagame at Village Urugwiro on Wednesday for discussions on bilateral relations and areas of mutual interest.
The two countries have expanded their relationship beyond political contacts, with cooperation extending to transport, tourism, ICT and public-sector development.
Security has also become an important part of the partnership. During Kagame’s 2023 visit to Benin, the two countries signed an agreement on security and military cooperation, amid Benin’s efforts to address insecurity in its northern areas.
Economic cooperation has featured prominently in bilateral discussions, including efforts to promote trade and investment and improve movement between the two countries.
Wadagni already has experience dealing with Rwanda. In 2023, when he was Benin’s economy and finance minister, he visited Kigali as a special envoy of then-President Patrice Talon and met Kagame.
The current visit comes four months after Wadagni took office. Rwanda was represented at his inauguration in May by Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva, who attended the ceremony in Cotonou on Kagame’s behalf.
Wadagni is also expected to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial during his stay.
His visit comes as both governments look to build on agreements already reached and identify additional areas for cooperation.
