The new Russian Ambassador to Kigali, Alexander Polyakov, highlighted that the upcoming visit of the delegation of Rosatom, the Russian nuclear energy corporation, would include in-depth discussions on potentially significant projects for bilateral cooperation, namely the construction of a nuclear science center and a small nuclear power plant in Rwanda, using Russian technology.
"This is a complex, sensitive issue that requires careful consideration and multi-factor preparation. Therefore, I would caution against sensational expectations for now," the diplomat said.
Russia and Rwanda agreed in 2018 to cooperate in the peaceful nuclear energy use with the aim of developing Rwanda's nuclear infrastructure and promoting the use of nuclear technology in various sectors.
Russia, Rwanda aim to establish joint trade & science commission
Moscow and Kigali are planning to establish an intergovernmental commission on trade, economic, scientific, and technical cooperation. According to Alexander Polyakov, the draft agreement on this initiative is currently being reviewed by the Rwandan authorities.
"The issue of creating an Intergovernmental Russian-Rwandan Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation is on the agenda. The draft of the corresponding agreement was submitted this summer for consideration by partners," stated Polyakov.
The diplomat emphasized the potential for collaboration between Russia and Rwanda in IT and cybersecurity. He acknowledged Rwanda's leadership in digitization across Africa while highlighting Russia's expertise in areas like electronic services and cybersecurity, making for a mutually beneficial partnership.
Ambassador Polyakov also recalled that it was in Rwanda that Kaspersky Lab, a Russian multinational cybersecurity and anti-virus provider, opened its second office in sub-Saharan Africa after South Africa, and last year opened its first Transparency Center on the continent.