Rwanda and Congo Brazzaville to strengthen cooperation on public finance management, taxation
Rwanda and Congo Brazzaville have signed an agreement establishing a framework under which the two countries can cooperate in various areas of interest.
The areas include statistics, planning, investment, public financial management, budget process, and taxation.
The Minister for Finance and Economic Planning, Claver Gatete, said the agreement will facilitate collaboration between the two nations on matters such as sharing public financial management best practices, among others.
“The cooperation framework gives both countries the opportunity to share best practices and learn from each other. It is also in line with promoting the south-south cooperation which is vital for both countries,” Minister Gatete said.
Minister Gatete further pointed out that the move is in line with African Union recommendation that, as Africans reform, it is better to learn from each other instead of looking outside the continent.
“Whatever has worked in Rwanda, Congo believes can also work for them. A joint technical team will be put in place to follow up on the agreement as regards what we need from them and what they need from us,” Gatete said.
The Congolese minister for finance and budget, Callixte Nganongo, said the cooperation will help enhance public finance management that is favorable for commercial activities.
“Consolidation of public finance is of great consideration. We have realized revenue securitization is highly needed and Rwanda made good progress in that area,” he said.
Ingrid Olga Ebouka Babakas, the Congolese minister for planning, statistics and regional integration, said: “This step started a year ago during the meeting of AU Heads of State. Beyond the words, we have to proceed with actions.”
