Danish Foreign Minister Visits Rwanda to Officially Open Embassy in Kigali

Kigali, 16 February 2026 - Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen is in Rwanda for an official visit marked by the formal inauguration of Denmark’s embassy in Kigali, underscoring Copenhagen’s growing engagement with African countries. Lars Løkke Rasmussen arrived in Rwanda on Sunday, 15 February 2026, as part of Denmark’s broader strategy to strengthen bilateral cooperation and deepen diplomatic and economic ties across the continent. On Monday, the Danish minister and his delegation visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, Gasabo District, where they were briefed on the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi. The delegation paid tribute to the victims laid to rest at the memorial site. During his stay, the Danish top diplomat is expected to hold talks with his Rwandan counterpart, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, focusing on enhancing partnerships, expanding economic cooperation, and exploring new avenues of collaboration between the two countries. The minister will also engage with Danish entrepreneurs operating in Rwanda, discussing both the investment opportunities and challenges facing European businesses in the country. In addition, he is scheduled to visit the University of Rwanda, where he will meet with students to discuss opportunities for pursuing further studies in Europe. Ahead of the visit, Lars Løkke Rasmussen described the opening of the embassy as part of Denmark’s expanding focus on Africa and its commitment to strengthening engagement with African nations. He highlighted Rwanda’s rapid development, particularly its ambitions in innovation, technology, and green solutions, noting that Danish expertise could contribute meaningfully to these sectors. A key milestone of the visit is the official opening of the Danish Embassy in Rwanda, which began operations in August 2025. Denmark appointed Casper Stenger Jensen as its first resident ambassador to Rwanda. Based in Kigali, Ambassador Jensen has emphasized Denmark’s intention to further broaden and deepen its relations with Rwanda and other countries in the region. The visit signals a new chapter in Denmark-Rwanda relations, anchored in diplomacy, trade, education, and sustainable development cooperation.