Rwanda’s diplomatic engagements in 2026 have focused on rebuilding strategic partnerships, strengthening regional economic integration and advancing what the government describes as an interest-driven foreign policy, according to foreign minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.

Speaking on The New Times’ The Context podcast, Nduhungirehe said Rwanda’s recent engagements with countries including South Africa, Tanzania and Botswana were aimed at creating practical benefits for Rwandans through trade, investment, mobility and regional stability.

“The first half of this year, 2026, was indeed very busy with intensive diplomatic engagement at all levels,” Nduhungirehe said.

“Rwanda has continued its pragmatic foreign policy, which is interest-driven and advancing our national development priorities, but while also at the same time contributing to peace, integration, and economic growth.”

He said Rwanda’s foreign policy under President Paul Kagame is focused on delivering tangible outcomes rather than diplomacy for its own sake.

“It’s not just diplomacy for its own sake. It’s diplomacy that creates opportunities, that creates economic growth for Rwandan people,” he said.