The accords, inked in the Azerbaijani capital Baku, open avenues for cooperation in trade, economic growth, education, culture, and technology. Both leaders highlighted the potential of this new phase of partnership to accelerate development and unlock opportunities for their citizens.

Speaking at a joint press briefing, President Kagame emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to making the partnership meaningful.

“We want to inject more energy and speed into this cooperation so that it benefits both our countries and our people,” he said. “Mr. President, know that you have a friend in Africa, in Rwanda, and we stand ready to continue strengthening our ties.”

President Aliyev, for his part, welcomed the agreements, describing Rwanda as a capable and reliable partner in Africa. He affirmed Azerbaijan’s readiness to implement the new commitments and to work hand in hand with Rwanda on shared goals.

This latest milestone builds on the growing bilateral relations that have taken shape over recent years. Rwanda and Azerbaijan first established diplomatic ties in 2017.

Momentum grew in October 2024 when Rwanda’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Lt Gen (Rtd) Charles Kayonga, presented his credentials to President Aliyev. At the time, both sides identified potential areas of cooperation, including trade, investment, education, science, and humanitarian initiatives.

The new agreements now place that vision on a stronger footing, signaling a shared ambition to transform bilateral relations into concrete partnerships with tangible benefits.

With Azerbaijan already represented in Rwanda through its mission in Addis Ababa, the two countries see these accords as a platform to expand collaboration not only bilaterally but also within wider regional and international frameworks.