Rwanda, C.African Republic ink defense, economic deals

ANKARA (AA) - The presidents of Rwanda and the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) on Tuesday witnessed the signature of several bilateral agreements in the C.A.R.’s capital, Bangui, following talks, according to media reports.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame held talks with his C.A.R. counterpart, Faustin-Archange Touadera, during Kagame’s one-day official visit to Bangui. Following the talks, the two leaders witnessed the signature of various agreements focusing on defense, oil, investment promotion and mining, the Africa.cgtn news website reported.

"This occasion marks a new chapter in the bilateral relationship, between Rwanda and the Central African Republic," the Africa.cgtn quoted Kagame as stating following his meeting with Touadera.

"Both our countries have endured difficult histories. There is no doubt about it. However, no nation is forever hostage to its past," he added.

"Today, we signed a number of important agreements which put our joint endeavours on solid footing. And this is just the beginning. These agreements should be diligently implemented, so we can build on them to achieve even more together, in the years ahead," he was quoted saying.

Kagame’s visit to the C.A.R. is the first of its kind since Touadera assumed office in 2016, according to the Kigali-based daily New Times.

Rwanda is the top contributor of peacekeeping forces in the C.A.R. with a mission of some 1,370 army troops as well as 430 police personnel, according to the Rwanda KT Press news website.