The Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the Russian Federation, Lt Gen Frank Mushyo Kamanzi, presented letters of credence to President Aleksandar Vučić of Serbia on Monday, May 22, solidifying his role as Rwanda's representative in the country. ALSO READ: Rwanda, Serbia agree to bolster trade ties Following the presentation of credentials, Ambassador Kamanzi conveyed a message from President Paul Kagame to President Aleksandar Vučić and the people of Serbia. President Vučić warmly welcomed Ambassador Kamanzi and assured him of full support during his tenure. Additionally, the Serbian president extended his warm greetings to President Kagame and the people of Rwanda. Prior to presenting the letters of credence in Serbia, Ambassador Mushyo Kamanzi held a meeting with the Rwandan community residing in Serbia and friends of Rwanda. In April 2023, Rwanda and Serbia reached an agreement to enhance trade relations, allowing Rwanda to import wheat and maize from Serbia while exporting coffee and tea to the Balkan nation. This agreement aims to strengthen economic cooperation and bilateral ties between the two countries. Serbia stands out as one of the world's leading exporters of cereals, including wheat and maize, producing approximately 8.1 million tonnes of maize per year, securing its position as the seventh-largest maize exporter globally. Meanwhile, Rwanda boasts a thriving coffee and tea sector that stands to benefit from this trade deal. The agreement comes at a time when Rwanda seeks alternative sources for wheat imports due to disruptions in the global market caused by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Prior to the conflict, Russia accounted for 64% of Rwanda's wheat imports. ALSO READ: Rwanda looks elsewhere for wheat imports amid Russia-Ukraine crisis Besides the trade agreement, both countries aspire to expand collaboration in various fields, including technology. Rwanda is contemplating sending students to Serbia to acquire advanced technological skills.
