Kigali June 3, 2021 - Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente is in Russia to participate in the 24th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) taking place from 2nd - 5th June, 2021 in St. Petersburg.

Earlier today, the Premier took part in the Forum opening ceremony

panel alongside Andrei Belousov, First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar.

In his remarks, Dr. Ngirente noted that during this Covid-19 pandemic period, no one is safe unless everyone is safe, adding that there is a need for equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines. He called upon countries to work together for strategic partnership and investment to address Covid-19 related challenges.

Speaking on post Covid-19 recovery in Africa, Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente said:

“This is the right time to invest in Africa given its potential for growth. In Rwanda, strategic investment in key sectors such as infrastructure, education, health, human capital and pharmaceuticals is a priority.”

Later in the afternoon, Prime Minister Ngirente also participated in a panel discussion on Russia – Africa business dialogue.

Over the last 24 years, the Forum has become a leading global platform for members of the business community to meet and discuss the key economic issues facing Russia, emerging markets, and the world as a whole.