Rwanda to export beryllium to Kazakhstan under new bilateral agreement
The mineral deal was one of several agreements signed during Kagame's state visit, aimed at deepening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in sectors such as trade, agriculture and technology.
Rwanda and Kazakhstan have inked a new cooperation agreement that will allow the Central Asian country to import beryllium from the East African nation.
The deal, between Kazakhstan's Samruk Kazyna National Welfare Fund and Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), was formalised on Wednesday when President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hosted Rwanda President Paul Kagame at the Aqorda Presidential Palace in Astana.
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The mineral deal was one of several agreements signed during Kagame's state visit, aimed at deepening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in sectors such as trade, agriculture and technology.
Beryllium, a strong but light metal, is used in the electronics, telecommunications, aerospace and defense industries for its strength, conductivity and heat resistance.
"As you have witnessed with the signing of the agreements, we intend to explore more opportunities for collaboration. Whether in the fields of trade, technology or agriculture, our two countries are eager to learn from each other," said Kagame.
"We welcome the General Cooperation Agreement on critical minerals between the Rwanda Mining Board and Samruk Kazyna. Rwanda can benefit immensely from Kazakhstan's know-how, especially in the field of energy, mining, and mineral processing."
The Samruk Kazyna-owned Ulba Metallurgical Plant is currently considering importing beryllium from Rwanda. The plant can process up to 1,500 tons of beryllium each year, handling ores with beryllium oxide content of up to 8 per cent.
Kagame highlighted that Rwanda is keen to learn from Kazakhstan's advancements, particularly in technology and industrial development, noting that he sees this partnership as a chance for both countries to share best practices and create new economic opportunities.
"Our countries are bound by ties of friendship that provide a solid foundation for deepening our partnership. By signing agreements, we aim to expand cooperation opportunities. Our countries seek to exchange experience in areas such as trade, technology, and agriculture," Kagame said.
President Tokayev stated that Kazakhstan and Rwanda are interested in developing the green energy sector and efficiently utilising natural resources.
He noted that the countries plan to implement joint projects, which are expected to boost trade volumes and give new momentum to investment cooperation between Kazakhstan and Rwanda.
"We agreed to further strengthen cooperation in global financial markets. Special attention was given to climate change and environmental protection issues. Rwanda has significant experience in climate protection and makes a valuable contribution to global projects," he said.
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