Rwanda-Pakistan Ties: Ambitious Growth in Trade and Health Collaboration

Rwanda and Pakistan are set to deepen their bilateral relations, with a particular focus on trade and healthcare, said Rwanda’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Ms. Fatou Harerimana, during a discussion on Sunday. Highlighting the potential in these sectors, she called for increased engagement between the private sectors of both nations to unlock mutual benefits.

Rwanda has displayed remarkable resilience, with its GDP growing by 9.7% in the first quarter of 2024, up from 8.2% in 2023. “This growth is driven by strong consumer activity in services and industry,” noted Harerimana. Additionally, job creation hit a record high in late 2023, with over 500,000 new roles added, signaling an economic rebound.

The ambassador expressed Rwanda’s aspirations to become a Middle-Income Country by 2035 and a High-Income Country by 2050. These targets are guided by the National Strategies for Transformation (NST-2) and aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Public health emerged as a promising area for collaboration, with Dr. Yasir Khan Niazi, CEO of GAK Healthcare International, affirming Pakistan’s readiness to strengthen ties in this sector. “Rwanda’s growing economy presents immense potential in healthcare, where Pakistan can contribute significantly,” he said.

Both nations have shared a commitment to building on their 62-year relationship, characterized by mutual respect and growing cooperation in health, trade, and education. Projections for Rwanda’s GDP growth, expected to average 7.7% in 2025–26, underscore opportunities for joint ventures in sectors like tourism, construction, and manufacturing.

With strong foundations in place, the partnership between Rwanda and Pakistan is poised for significant expansion, fostering sustainable development and mutual prosperity.