Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe and Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Bogdanov Mikhail Leonidovich held a phone conversation to discuss the ongoing situation in eastern DR Congo and ways to enhance Rwanda-Russia relations.
According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, their discussion focused on reinforcing diplomatic cooperation and exchanging views on the security crisis in the region.
The conversation comes amid heightened tensions following the M23 rebels’ capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on January 27. On February 3, rebel spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka announced a ceasefire effective February 4, citing humanitarian concerns. A joint East African Community and Southern African Development Community summit is set for February 8 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to address the crisis.
Rwanda-Russia Relations
Diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Russia date back to 1963, with cooperation spanning political, military, educational, and cultural sectors. Russia offers scholarships to Rwandan students, and Rwandan police officers also receive training in Russia. Over the years, approximately 800 Rwandan students have graduated from Russian universities in disciplines such as law, medicine, and political science.
In August 2024, Russia’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Alexander Polyakov, reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. He praised Rwanda’s proactive role in African integration and peacekeeping efforts, emphasizing Russia’s support for a peaceful resolution to the DR Congo crisis through dialogue.
Russia and Rwanda also collaborate in areas such as nuclear energy, military cooperation, trade, and investment. Polyakov reiterated Russia’s commitment to providing state-funded scholarships for Rwandan students and expanding educational opportunities.