Rwanda’s foreign minister met with his Ethiopian counterpart to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and advancing shared regional interests, officials said.
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe held talks with Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos on the sidelines of the 48th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council. The meeting brought together foreign ministers from AU member states to discuss continental priorities.
Nduhungirehe described Ethiopia as a key partner for Rwanda and emphasized Kigali’s commitment to deepening cooperation across multiple sectors. The two ministers also exchanged views on regional peace and security issues, including developments affecting the Horn of Africa and the wider East African region, according to a statement from Rwanda’s foreign ministry.
The AU Executive Council session is being held under the theme of sustainable water supply and sanitation, aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 development framework. The meeting precedes the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for Feb. 14-15.
Rwanda and Ethiopia maintain strong collaboration in agriculture, trade, education, and military training. The countries have worked closely in sharing expertise and conducting joint training programs, reflecting a long-standing partnership.
The two nations also strengthened aviation ties in 2019 through an air services agreement that allowed national carriers RwandAir and Ethiopian Airlines to expand operations and share airspace freely. The agreement was seen as a key step toward improving connectivity and boosting economic relations.
Officials said the meeting signals both countries’ intent to deepen their strategic partnership, support regional integration, and pursue shared development goals within the African Union framework. The discussions also highlighted ongoing efforts to build stronger economic and diplomatic cooperation across East Africa.
