President Paul Kagame has said his state visit to Cambodia marks a new chapter in bilateral relations, with both countries seeking to diversify their economies and accelerate development through investment.
Speaking at a state banquet in Phnom Penh on Friday, 13 November, President Kagame thanked King Norodom Sihamoni for the invitation and praised the hospitality extended to the Rwandan delegation.
“Rwanda is very happy to be working with Cambodia. From the productive discussions we have had today, it is evident that our aspirations are closely aligned,” he said.
President Kagame commended Cambodia’s economic transformation and said Rwanda looked forward to learning from its experience.
“This visit is the beginning of a new chapter that will strengthen our cooperation and bonds of friendship,” he said.
Three agreements cover investment, tourism and aviation
Earlier on Friday, President Kagame and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet held talks at the Peace Palace and witnessed the exchange of three cooperation agreements.
The documents include a memorandum of understanding between the Rwanda Development Board and the Council for the Development of Cambodia, a memorandum on tourism cooperation and an Air Services Agreement.
The agreements form part of efforts to strengthen Rwanda–Cambodia ties through investment promotion, tourism and aviation cooperation.
Leaders discuss access to African and Asian markets
During their bilateral discussions, President Kagame and Prime Minister Hun Manet explored opportunities to expand trade and investment.
The leaders highlighted the potential for Rwanda to provide Cambodian businesses with access to African markets, while Cambodia could help Rwandan businesses reach Southeast Asian markets.
According to Cambodia’s Ministry of Information, the discussions also covered cooperation against transnational crime and technology-based scams.
President Kagame and Prime Minister Hun Manet agreed to encourage further high-level exchanges and cooperation through international organisations, including the United Nations and La Francophonie.
State visit precedes Francophonie Summit
President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame arrived in Phnom Penh on 12 November. King Norodom Sihamoni received them at the Royal Palace the following day.
President Kagame also met Senate President Hun Sen and National Assembly President Khuon Sudary during the visit.
The visit precedes the 20th Summit of the International Organisation of La Francophonie, which Cambodia will host in Phnom Penh on 15 and 16 November 2026.
