Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has congratulated Djibouti’s leader Ismail Omar Guelleh on his re-election, reaffirming the close relationship between the two countries and signaling continued cooperation.

In a message shared following a phone conversation between the two leaders, Kagame said he had extended his congratulations to Guelleh and expressed optimism about the future of Rwanda-Djibouti relations.

“I look forward to continuing to deepen the strong, longstanding ties between the people of Djibouti and Rwanda, and to working closely together to advance our shared priorities for growth and prosperity,” Kagame said.

President Guelleh was re-elected in Djibouti’s 2026 presidential election with approximately 98 percent of the vote, extending his long-standing leadership of the country.

The result, achieved against limited opposition, reinforces continuity in Djibouti’s governance as it maintains its strategic role as a key logistics and trade hub in the Horn of Africa.

The exchange highlights ongoing diplomatic engagement between Kigali and Djibouti City, with both countries seeking to strengthen partnerships in areas such as trade, regional stability and economic development.

Rwanda and Djibouti have maintained cordial relations over the years, with cooperation often centered on regional integration and shared economic interests.

Djibouti’s strategic position as a major port and transit hub makes it an important partner for countries looking to expand trade routes and connectivity.

Kagame’s message illustrates Rwanda’s broader foreign policy approach, which emphasizes bilateral partnerships and economic collaboration across the continent.

Guelleh’s re-election provides a platform for both nations to further consolidate ties and pursue joint initiatives aimed at boosting growth and prosperity.