Readout: Canada strengthens bilateral relationship with Rwandan President

July 20, 2023 – Ottawa, Canada - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, the Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, and Arielle Kayabaga, Member of Parliament for London West, met with the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, during the 2023 Women Deliver Conference in Kigali, Rwanda.

Minister Sajjan and Minister Ien congratulated President Kagame on hosting the conference and discussed how Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy advances gender equality through women’s empowerment.

President Kagame thanked Canada for its commitment to the bilateral relationship, noting the imminent opening of a full Canadian High Commission in Kigali. The Minister and the President then discussed regional challenges and concerns with respect to regional peace and security.

Minister Sajjan pledged to continue to support peace and stability in the region through focused development activity, in order to increase prosperity and opportunities.

Minister Sajjan and President Kagame agreed to stay in close contact to examine ways to advance development goals in Africa.

Associated Links

• Canada announces funding for women and girls’ health and rights, and gender equality at 2023 Women Deliver Conference