The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum and focused on advancing the traditionally friendly relations between Moscow and Kigali. According to officials, discussions centred on identifying practical ways to expand mutually beneficial cooperation, particularly in trade, economic engagement and humanitarian affairs.
Both sides also reiterated their shared resolve to deepen political dialogue and enhance coordination within the United Nations and other multilateral fora in addressing global and regional challenges.
Opening the talks, Lavrov said the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum had evolved into a key platform for engagement since its establishment following the Russia–Africa Summit. He described the forum as more than an organisational framework, noting that it provides a convenient space for consultations on regional issues as well as bilateral relations.
“We value our warm relations with Rwanda,” Lavrov said, expressing hope for a productive exchange on bilateral ties alongside regional and international matters.
Nduhungirehe welcomed the discussions, describing the meeting as constructive and expressing satisfaction with the growing Russia–Africa Partnership Forum. He said the talks provided an opportunity to review the “excellent bilateral cooperation” between the two countries and to explore ways of further expanding it.
The two ministers also discussed the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with Nduhungirehe thanking Russia for its continued support of ongoing peace processes.
In line with broader Russia–Rwanda cooperation, Rwanda plans to establish a nuclear research centre in collaboration with Russia by 2030. The centre is expected to focus on producing radioactive materials for cancer diagnosis and treatment, improving agriculture through radiation technologies, and advancing industrial testing methods. Additionally, Rwanda is preparing to host Africa’s first demonstration of a Dual Fluid nuclear reactor and is exploring small modular reactor (SMR) technology to sustainably meet the country’s growing energy demands.
Beyond bilateral issues, Nduhungirehe, while speaking during the ministerial conference, highlighted Rwanda’s appreciation of Russia’s consistent support for a more just and representative international system. He referred to the African Union’s flagship Agenda 2063 initiative, Silencing the Guns, noting that the goal of ending conflicts on the continent remains unrealised.
“We believe it is high time for African countries and the AU to reflect on the root causes of conflicts in order to provide sustainable solutions,” he said.
The Second Ministerial Conference in Cairo builds on earlier engagements, including the first ministerial meeting held in Sochi in November 2024 and the Second Russia–Africa Summit in St. Petersburg in July 2023. The meetings laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation across security, diplomacy and development.
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