Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Rwandan counterpart, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, held a pivotal phone discussion on Sunday, focusing on bolstering bilateral relations and addressing pressing regional issues, including the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The talks opened with Abdelatty extending Egypt’s condolences ahead of Rwanda’s 31st commemoration of the 1994 genocide, which claimed over 800,000 lives. “Egypt acknowledges Rwanda’s remarkable journey of reconciliation and development since the tragedy,” Abdelatty stated, referencing Kigali’s economic growth and regional leadership.
Both ministers agreed to enhance economic partnerships, particularly in trade, agriculture, and technology, while aligning diplomatic efforts in multilateral forums. The dialogue underscored Egypt’s strategic interest in deepening ties with East African nations under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s “African Priority” policy.
Egypt Backs Peace Efforts in Eastern Congo Amid Rising Tensions
A key focus of the discussion was the volatile security situation in eastern DRC, where Rwanda has been accused of backing M23 rebels—a claim Kigali denies. Abdelatty reiterated Cairo’s support for peaceful conflict resolution, welcoming recent Southern African Development Community (SADC) and East African Community (EAC) initiatives, including a proposed ceasefire and mediated political dialogue.
“Egypt advocates for de-escalation and inclusive talks to stabilize the region,” Abdelatty emphasized, signaling Cairo’s intent to play a neutral facilitation role. The ministers also reviewed outcomes from the February 2025 African Union Summit, which called for accelerated implementation of the Luanda and Nairobi peace roadmaps.
Analysts note the call’s timing is significant, coinciding with heightened regional diplomacy ahead of the UN Security Council’s April review of the Congo peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO). Rwanda’s Foreign Ministry later tweeted appreciation for Egypt’s “consistent stance on African solidarity.”
