Rwanda, Benin strengthen bilateral ties

Rwanda and Benin are making significant strides in strengthening their bilateral ties and cooperation for mutual benefit. This comes in the wake of a three-day visit by a delegation led by Benin President Patrice Talon to Rwanda. The visit culminated in the scrapping of visa requirements for African passport holders, marking a pivotal moment in the relationship between the two nations. Additionally, Rwandair flights to Benin are set to commence, further enhancing connectivity between the two countries. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Aurelien Agbenonci, Benin's Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of the partnership between Rwanda and Benin. He highlighted the shared vision of both nations for a strong and safe Africa, driven by a belief in the continent's potential and capacity to effect positive change. Agbenonci described the collaboration between Rwanda and Benin as a step towards a new era of progress and development. One of the key themes discussed during the interview was the future of South-South cooperation and trade. Agbenonci stressed the significance of this type of collaboration, noting that Rwanda's upcoming flights to Benin signaled a deepening of economic ties between the two countries. He revealed that various agreements were being signed in fields such as IT and governance, with a focus on empowering the youth and fostering innovation through initiatives like Smart Africa. Furthermore, Agbenonci underscored the importance of learning from each other to drive mutual growth and prosperity. Drawing inspiration from Rwanda's Special Economic Zone, he expressed Benin's commitment to adapting successful models and strategies from their counterparts. The minister emphasized the value of exchanging ideas and leveraging collective strengths to bring about positive change in Africa. In closing, Agbenonci reiterated the shared commitment of Rwanda and Benin to work hand in hand, combining their efforts, intellect, and energy to realize their vision for the continent. The 'regime of the new deal' in Benin signifies a renewed dedication to making tangible advancements and fostering a prosperous future for Africa through collaborative efforts. The partnership between Rwanda and Benin holds great promise for driving socio-economic development, technological innovation, and youth empowerment across the region. As both nations embark on this journey of cooperation and shared progress, the stage is set for a new chapter of growth and prosperity in Africa.