MFA Press Statement: Visit of Senior Minister Of State For Foreign Affairs Zainul Abidin Rasheed To Rwanda, 8 To 12 December 2010

Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Zainul Abidin Rasheed made a working visit to the Republic of Rwanda from 8 to 12 December 2010. This visit was in conjunction with a business mission led by the Africa Business Group (AfBG) under the Singapore Business Federation (SBF).

During the visit, SMS Zainul called on President Paul Kagame. SMS Zainul congratulated President Kagame on his victory at the August 2010 Presidential elections and Rwanda's rapid economic development under President Kagame. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at growing Singapore-Rwanda cooperation underpinned by common values and interest. They also discussed the investment and business opportunities in Rwanda including the challenges of keeping the cost of business competitive and providing better connectivity.

SMS Zainul also called on Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation, Louise Mushikiwabo; Minister of Finance and Planning, John Rwangombwa; Minister of Infrastructure, Vincent Karega; Minister of Trade and Industry, Monique Nsanzabaganwa; Minister of East African Community Affairs, Monique Mukaruriza; Minister in the President's Office in charge of ICT, Dr Ignace Gatare; and Minister of Public Service and Labour, Anastase Murekezi. SMS Zainul and the Ministers discussed the growing cooperation between Singapore and Rwanda, noting in particular the active involvement by Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE) in various capacity building projects in Rwanda. They also exchanged views on political and economic developments in Southeast and East Asia as well as the East African region.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
13 DECEMBER 2010