President Paul Kagame on Tuesday urged world leaders to redefine global trade systems to ensure more inclusive and sustainable economic growth for developing nations.
Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Summit in Riyadh, Kagame joined fellow heads of state for a panel discussion titled “What Is the True Cost of Economic Security?” at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center.
Kagame emphasized the need to rethink how global trade operates, saying greater openness and cooperation are essential to unlocking equitable opportunities across developing economies.
“We must reshape international trade to create a system that works for everyone,” Kagame said. “A fair and transparent framework can open pathways to sustainable growth and prosperity.”
The Rwandan leader participated alongside presidents from Guyana, Colombia, Bulgaria, and Albania, as well as the Prime Minister of Bermuda. The discussion centered on balancing national interests with shared opportunities in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
The three-day FII Summit now in its ninth edition has drawn more than 2,500 participants, including heads of state, government officials, global investors, and private sector leaders. This year’s theme, “Charting New Pathways for Economic Growth and Development: The Key to Success,” explores how innovation and collaboration can drive long-term progress.
Later in the day, Kagame joined another panel examining whether humanity is moving in the right direction, reflecting on the broader challenges and opportunities facing global development.
Launched in 2017, the FII Institute convenes global decision-makers each year to discuss sustainable investment solutions. Its work focuses on four key areas as artificial intelligence and robotics, education, healthcare, and sustainability aimed at addressing global inequality and advancing shared prosperity.
