In a significant diplomatic engagement aligning with Pakistan’s “Engage Africa” policy, the Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a special lecture by His Excellency Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda.
The talk, titled “Rising Africa: Diplomatic and Economic Success Story of Rwanda,” was part of ISSI’s Distinguished Lecture Series, and underscored the deepening bilateral ties between Pakistan and Rwanda as well as Africa’s growing prominence in global geopolitics.
A Strategic Engagement Under Pakistan’s “Engage Africa” Policy
This event is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s “Engage Africa” initiative, which seeks to foster deeper diplomatic, trade, and cultural ties with African nations. With the continent being recognized as the next frontier for global economic growth, Islamabad’s pivot toward Africa reflects a strategic recalibration of its foreign policy.
Welcoming the Rwandan delegation, Ms. Amina Khan, Director of CAMEA, emphasized the need for greater understanding of Africa’s political and economic transformation, particularly the Rwandan development model—widely regarded as a symbol of resilience and strategic governance.
Rwanda: A Model of Resilience and Innovation
During his keynote address, Foreign Minister Nduhungirehe recounted Rwanda’s journey from the 1994 genocide to its current status as a stable, fast-growing, and diplomatically proactive nation. Highlighting Rwanda’s transformation, he noted that the country has rebuilt itself from scratch, crafting a development model rooted in good governance, economic liberalization, digital innovation, and inclusive growth.
He elaborated on Rwanda’s foreign policy trajectory that emphasizes self-reliance, asserting that the country now maintains independent diplomatic outreach and is actively hosting major global events. The Minister stressed that Rwanda is shifting from aid dependency to self-sustained growth, with an ambitious goal of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2035 and a high-income country by 2050.
“Our extensive reforms, strategic investments, and business-friendly policies have positioned Rwanda as a global hub for innovation, tourism, and diplomacy,” said Minister Nduhungirehe.
Pakistan-Rwanda Relations on the Rise
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, called Rwanda a beacon of transformation in Africa, citing its achievements in gender empowerment, environmental sustainability, and peacekeeping. He lauded the establishment of the Pakistan High Commission in Kigali (2021) and the Rwandan Mission in Islamabad, stating these steps signify the strengthening of bilateral engagement.
He also noted that Rwanda’s leadership under President Paul Kagame has brought socio-economic prosperity and a digital renaissance that provides valuable lessons for developing countries like Pakistan.
“The diplomatic openings offer practical avenues for cooperation in trade, education, health, agriculture, technology, and maritime affairs,” he stated.
Ambassador Mahmood reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to translating goodwill into concrete outcomes through structured political consultations, bilateral agreements, and people-to-people exchanges.
Call for Investment:
The session concluded with a vote of thanks from Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary (Africa), who emphasized that Pakistani entrepreneurs must explore Rwanda’s potential as a gateway for African trade and investment. With Rwanda’s strategic location in East Africa and its investor-friendly policies, he encouraged Pakistan’s private sector to seize opportunities in key sectors.
“Africa is not just rising—it is redefining global narratives. Rwanda stands at the heart of this transformation,” said Ambassador Khan.
Academic and Civil Society Participation
The high-profile event witnessed participation from diplomats, government officials, academics, students, and civil society members, marking it as a landmark initiative for promoting Africa-Pakistan strategic discourse. Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the ISSI Board of Governors, presented a commemorative memento to the visiting Foreign Minister, underlining the diplomatic warmth and symbolic depth of the occasion.
Key Takeaways:
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Rwanda’s development model is globally recognized for rebuilding a nation after tragedy through visionary leadership and socio-economic reforms.
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Pakistan’s “Engage Africa” policy aligns well with Africa’s upward economic trajectory and seeks stronger trade and diplomatic engagements.
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The opening of High Commissions in both Kigali and Islamabad symbolizes a new era of bilateral cooperation.
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Rwanda’s investment-friendly environment and geo-strategic location make it an attractive destination for Pakistani investors and entrepreneurs.
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Bilateral collaboration can be enhanced in technology, education, trade, climate, health, and cultural exchanges.
A New Chapter in Africa-Asia Diplomacy
The Distinguished Lecture Series event organized by ISSI through CAMEA is more than just a diplomatic engagement—it is a visionary step toward reshaping global South-South cooperation. As Rwanda emerges as a central player in Africa’s renaissance, and Pakistan broadens its foreign policy horizons, this bilateral relationship may become a model for future cooperation between emerging economies.
With diplomatic bridges being built and economic synergies being explored, the Pakistan-Rwanda connection is poised to play a vital role in the new global order, where the Global South takes center stage.
References
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Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad – ISSI Official Event Report
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Government of Rwanda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs Archives
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Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs – “Engage Africa” Policy Framework
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World Bank Rwanda Economic Overview (2024)
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UNDP Rwanda Development Reports
