The Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that President Paul Kagame will conduct an official visit to the country from Wednesday, September 18 to September 23, 2024.
During his visit, President Kagame is expected to meet with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong. He will also have a meeting with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
This will be President Kagame's fourth visit to Singapore, with his last visit occurring in September 2022.
Rwanda and Singapore collaborate in various sectors and are both members of FOSS, an organization established in 1992 that includes countries from different continents. FOSS members work together to advance their development and address challenges faced by small nations.
The strong relationship between the two countries was further solidified in September 2023 when Rwanda and Singapore signed a cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing the welfare of their citizens and promoting economic development. This agreement, signed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE), involves Ambassador Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye and SCE CEO Wy Mun Kong. It will last for five years and focus on areas such as technology, cybersecurity, and climate change.
The agreement also includes projects for urban planning, industrial zone development, infrastructure, and public transport.
Singapore ranks 14th globally in merchandise exports and 15th in imports, reflecting its significant economic role. The country hosts 1,500 Chinese companies and 1,500 Indian companies, making it a major industrial hub.
The relationship between Rwanda and Singapore is expected to accelerate Rwandan investment and help achieve its employment creation goals. Notably, 44% of the workforce in Singapore consists of foreign nationals.
Singapore has a history of robust economic performance and is known for its business-friendly environment and innovation. In 2023, its GDP reached $501 billion, a significant increase from $0.70 billion in 1960.
