The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Felix Namuhoranye on Tuesday, September 24, received his Seychelles counterpart Commissioner of Police (CP) Ted Barbe, at Rwanda National Police (RNP) General Headquarters, in Kigali, for a bilateral meeting to strengthen the existing cooperation.
On the same day, Gen Mubarakh Muganga, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Chief of Defence Staff, also met his counterpart Brigadier Michael Rosette of the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces, in Kigali, for a discussion on bilateral defence cooperation and enhancing operational capabilities.
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Namuhoranye pointed out that the visit marks a milestone in the cooperation journey that started in June last year, when a cooperation agreement in law enforcement was signed between Rwanda and Seychelles. He added that this builds on the guidance and strong foundation laid by the leaders of the two countries to work together in different areas of policing.
"This is an opportunity to learn from each other, share experience and establish strategies for sustainable cooperation in security and policing needs of our countries and the continent at large," Namuhoranye said, adding that this will help to harness joint efforts and capacities that are essential for collective security needs.
"Rwanda has consistently demonstrated its readiness to engage in meaningful partnerships, both regionally and internationally... Rwanda National Police is a reliable partner ready to work with you going forward.”
He emphasized that community policing remains the core of the RNP&039;s safety and security agenda.
The Seychelles Police chief commended Rwanda's progress in policing and security.
"Policing is quit challenging in Seychelles since we have more waters to Police than the land. We are surrounded by water bodies and facing a big challenge of drug trafficking. Last year, we intercepted more than one tonne of narcotics, so this is one major area where we can work together through information sharing," Barbe said.
He added: "I am happy that our President chose Rwanda as a strong partner to work with and share experiences. We will continue to expand on various areas of interest like community policing, forensics, and fighting drug trafficking, financial crimes."
The two parties agreed to constitute a joint team to fast-track the implementation of the cooperation agreement. During his four-day visit, Barbe and his delegation will tour various RNP units and departments, including training centres, operation units and border security.