Leaders focus on trade, regional integration, and strategic cooperation during one-day working visit
President Paul Kagame of Rwanda arrived in Dar es Salaam on Sunday, May 3, for a one-day working visit aimed at bilateral relations between Rwanda and Tanzania. He was warmly received by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, with both leaders proceeding to hold high-level bilateral talks shortly after his arrival.
The discussions centered on enhancing cooperation across key sectors of mutual interest, including trade, air transport, energy, infrastructure, as well as defence and security. Following their tête-à-tête meeting, the two presidents are expected to address a joint press conference outlining the outcomes of their engagements.
A key focus of the visit is strengthening regional solidarity and accelerating economic integration within the East African Community (EAC). The bloc has set an ambitious target to boost intra-regional trade from 15 percent to 40 percent by 2030. While trade has shown steady growth—rising from approximately $9.8 billion in 2021 to $14.3 billion in 2024—it still falls short of the desired levels.
Rwanda and Tanzania already maintain strong cooperation in several areas, and both countries are keen to expand this partnership further. Their commitment was reaffirmed during the 16th Joint Permanent Commission held in Kigali in July 2025, where discussions included improving air connectivity and advancing a joint railway project.The latest meeting is expected to further solidify ties and open new avenues for economic collaboration between the two East African nations.
