Kigali, 14 January 2013
Today, President Kagame received South Korea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Kim Sung-Hwan at Urugwiro Village. Kim Sung-Hwan is in Rwanda for a two day visit aimed at enhancing bilateral relations as well as strengthening Rwanda and Korea’s collaboration on the United Nations Security Council.
Commenting on the diplomatic relations between South Korea and Rwanda, Kim Sung-Hwan told the press:
“We have a longstanding and healthy relationship with Rwanda. We have formally agreed to promote the protection of traders and investors willing to work in either country. Our people will interact more as well as have the opportunity to expand their businesses.”
As newly elected members of the United Nations Security Council, Minister Kim Sung-Hwan also emphasized South Korea’s intention to learn more about the region and work closely with Rwanda on to promote peace and security.
Established in 1963, this year will mark the 50th anniversary of Rwanda’s diplomatic relations with the Republic of Korea. With partnerships on projects including water resource development, ICT development and vocational training, South Korea and Rwanda continue to share excellent bilateral relations and mutual support at multilateral level. Rwanda’s diplomatic bureau in Seoul was opened in November 2008 and upgraded to a fully-fledged Embassy in February 2009 while Korea appointed its Head of Mission at ambassadorial level in October 2012.