The Burundian Minister of Justice is leading a delegation to Rwanda on a working visit aimed on the continued efforts to normalize ties between the two countries.

Minister Domina Banyankibona  together with her delegation on Friday met her Rwandan counterpart, Emmanuel Ugirashebuja in a meeting that was held at the latter's office.

The two ministers commended the steps that have been taken to restore ties between the two countries that have been icy since 2015, specifically pointing out security cooperation that is already yielding results.

The bilateral meeting on the continued efforts to normalize ties between the two countries takes place on February 25. Dan Nsengiyumva

Their discussions centered on mechanisms to extradite criminals from both countries among other issues.

So far Rwanda has handed over 19 suspects while Burundi on the other hand has handed over 11.

Speaking on the relationship between the two countries Banyankimbona said they both share historical ties that date many centuries back and the people of the two countries would love to see countries restored.

"The people of the two countries have not been able to travel across borders since 2015 because of various reasons but we are happy we are having bilateral cooperation between our countries to fix such issues,” she said.

The Burundian Minister of Justice Domina Banyankibona delivers her remarks during the meeting.

Ugirashebuja speaking on the same occasion said the two sister countries have made commendable progress towards addressing some of the issues that affected bilateral ties nearly seven years ago.

"Rwanda and Burundi are like twins. What we share is far bigger than what can separate us. We are happy that our relations are taking a new positive direction, with the guidance of our two leaders,” he noted

He further said that both countries witnessed many bilateral meetings at high levels in different areas over the past months, and it gives hope that the best future for countries and for citizens is proceeding.

However, he said that there is still a lot to discuss in areas of justice and on how the two countries can cooperate to make justice systems stronger and more efficient.

Adding that such a meeting is a very important step in that direction and hope that whatever may be achieved in the future, they need first of all to establish a strong legal framework of cooperation in the justice sector.

As part of the progress, Rwanda has facilitated the return of 29,442 Burundian refugees out of approximately 72,000 that have been repatriated into their home country since August 2020.

Commenting on those refugees Banyakimbona said that they are now back home and well settled.