PM Modi reaches Rwanda, witnesses signing of key deals

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of Rwanda Paul Kagame on Monday witnessed the signing of agreements between the two countries.

Stressing on the relationship between the two countries Kagame said PM Modi's visit represented a milestone.  

“This visit, the first by an Indian PM, represents a milestone between the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Rwanda and India,” President Paul Kagame said. 

“The President himself came to receive me at the airport. This special gesture is a sign of respect for entire India,” PM Modi said and added, “India & Rwanda relationships have stood the test of time. It is a matter of honour for us that India has stood with Rwanda in their economic development journey.”

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“We are going to open a High Commission in Rwanda. This will not only establish communication between our respective governments but also enable facilities for consular, passport, visa & others,” PM Modi further said.

PM Modi on Monday arrived in Rwanda on the first leg of his three-nation Africa tour as part of India's outreach to the resource-rich continent, becoming the first Indian premier to visit the East African country. 

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The Prime Minister's aircraft landed at the Kigali International Airport where he was received by President of Rwanda Paul Kagame. He was accorded a red-carpet welcome at the airport. 

"A historic visit starts with a special gesture. President @PaulKagame personally welcomed PM @narendramodi to Rwanda," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted. 

His two-day state visit to Rwanda -- one of Africa's fastest growing economies -- assumes significance as this is the first by an Indian premier. 

Modi's visit comes days after Chinese President Xi Jinping's trip to Rwanda. Modi would proceed to Uganda on Tuesday for a two-day visit, the first bilateral visit by an Indian prime minister since 1997. 

The President of Rwanda is the current Chair of the African Union. 

Modi will attend the 10th edition of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa during which the grouping's leaders are expected to deliberate on global hot-spot issues, international peace and security, global governance and trade issues among others.

(With inputs from agencies)