MUSCAT — Oman and Rwanda have agreed to significantly expand bilateral cooperation after Rwandan President Paul Kagame concluded an official visit to Oman, with both countries announcing new diplomatic and economic mechanisms to strengthen their relationship.

The two sides agreed to establish resident embassies in Oman and Rwanda, creating a stronger permanent diplomatic presence between the two countries. They will also establish a Joint Committee and a Joint Business Council to provide institutional support for future cooperation.

A major part of the agreement focuses on economic cooperation. Oman and Rwanda identified investment, transport, energy, mining, tourism, logistics, communications, banking and finance as areas with potential for expanded collaboration.

The countries also want to increase trade by encouraging partnerships between their public and private sectors. The new Joint Business Council is expected to provide a platform for companies from both countries to explore commercial opportunities.

During President Kagame’s visit, Oman and Rwanda signed two agreements and six memoranda of understanding. The agreements include mutual visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic, service and special passports and measures to prevent double taxation.

The memoranda cover several practical areas, including agriculture, logistics, inland and dry-port development, supply-chain services, investment promotion, labour cooperation and strategic investment partnerships.

Logistics is particularly important for Rwanda because of its landlocked geography. Cooperation with Oman could provide new opportunities for strengthening connections between Rwandan trade and international maritime transport networks.

Both governments also highlighted the importance of transport, communications and information technology as areas where cooperation has already been developing.

The leaders agreed to implement a technical cooperation programme as part of the broader effort to create long-term institutional links between the two countries.

The discussions also covered regional and international affairs. Oman and Rwanda reaffirmed their support for dialogue, peaceful dispute resolution and efforts aimed at promoting security and stability.

The agreements mark a significant expansion of relations between Oman and Rwanda, moving cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic ties toward trade, investment, infrastructure, technology and private-sector partnerships.

For Oman, the partnership provides an opportunity to strengthen economic links with East Africa. For Rwanda, deeper cooperation with Oman could open additional channels for investment, logistics and access to international markets.

The establishment of resident embassies is expected to provide further momentum to the relationship and make it easier for both governments and businesses to coordinate future projects.