**Rwanda, Pakistan Explore Collaboration on Sustainable Urban Development and Tourism**
The High Commissioner of Rwanda to Pakistan, H.E. Fatou Harerimana, met with Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in urban development, infrastructure, and tourism, with a particular focus on sustainable city management. Both sides expressed strong interest in establishing a sister-city relationship between Islamabad and Kigali to facilitate enduring partnerships in these areas.
During the cordial meeting at CDA Headquarters, Chairman Randhawa highlighted Islamabad’s key development projects and ongoing initiatives aimed at transforming the city into a modern, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable capital. He outlined plans for the uplift of the diplomatic enclave and the proposed establishment of a Safari Park featuring a jungle-themed environment and close animal encounters. This project, he said, would enhance Islamabad’s appeal as a prime tourist destination, capitalizing on its pleasant weather and natural beauty. He further emphasized the CDA’s commitment to conservation-driven recreational facilities for both citizens and visitors.
The proposal to create a sister-city relationship between Islamabad and Kigali garnered strong support, with Randhawa underscoring the potential for deepened people-to-people contact and collaboration on municipal management, urban regeneration, and green urban solutions. He noted that Rwanda’s expertise in sustainable urban planning and wildlife conservation could greatly benefit Islamabad’s future development.
High Commissioner Harerimana praised CDA’s performance under Randhawa’s leadership, commending the successful completion of numerous development projects and the Authority’s ongoing efforts to beautify the capital. She expressed Rwanda’s keen interest in expanding bilateral cooperation in capital city governance, sustainable development, and eco-friendly urban solutions, as well as learning from Pakistan’s experience in managing capital city growth.
Both parties agreed to explore new opportunities for collaboration, particularly in smart city solutions, the development of green spaces, tourism enhancement, and capacity building through exchange programs and institutional linkages.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to deepening people-to-people ties and establishing strong institutional relationships. As a symbol of friendship and shared aspirations, Chairman Randhawa presented a souvenir to High Commissioner Harerimana, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to international cooperation and mutual respect. Expressing optimism for the future, Randhawa reiterated enthusiasm for potential Islamabad-Kigali collaboration as sister cities.
