On 18 December 2025, at InterContinental Bangkok Hotel, H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a discussion with H.E. Dr. Vincent Biruta, Minister of Interior of the Republic of Rwanda, on the sidelines of the International Conference on the Global Partnership against Online Scams (IC-GPOS), co-hosted by Thailand and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The Vice Minister informed Minister Biruta of great importance that Thailand attached to strengthening relations with Africa in all dimensions under Thailand’s foreign policy toward Africa, or the Thailand - Africa Initiative (TAI). The visit to Thailand by the Rwandan Minister of Interior, in this regard, carried the momentum of deepening ties between Thailand and Rwanda.

Both sides discussed possible cooperation between Thailand and Rwanda in various areas, particularly consular affairs and in anti-human trafficking efforts. The Rwandan Minister expressed his appreciation to the Thai side for facilitating the repatriation of Rwandan nationals who had fallen victim to transnational organised crimes. He also commended Thailand’s initiative in hosting this international conference that fostered collaboration among stakeholders, and expressed his interest in taking a leading role in hosting a regional meeting in Africa on this topic to ensure continued efforts in tackling this challenge at international level.

Also attended at the discussion were representatives from the Ministry of Justice of Thailand, the Royal Thai Police, and the Rwanda National Police. The Vice Minister Vijavat reiterated that enhanced coordination among concerned agencies will, in the long run, lead to better understanding and closer cooperation between the two countries in combatting human trafficking.

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