TZ hails Burundi for steady maintenance of peace, security
DAR ES SALAAM: DEPUTY Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr. Stephen Byabato, has commended the government of Burundi for its consistent efforts in maintaining peace and security within the country.
He expressed these sentiments during a gathering of diplomats and guests commemorating the 62nd independence anniversary of the Republic of Burundi in Dar es Salaam.
Mr. Byabato highlighted Burundi’s impressive progress over the past 62 years, noting advancements in political stability and economic development as significant achievements.
“Indeed, you will agree with me that in the span of 62 years, Burundi has largely succeeded in the political and economic spheres,” said Mr Byabato. “…. Mostly, politically, since the signing of the Peace Agreement here in Dar es Salaam in 2006, Burundi has been able to maintain peace and security throughout the country, as well as to promote democracy and good governance,” he said.
Furthermore, he said that Tanzania and Burundi have continued to maintain close cooperation at all times, as evidenced by the 1975 agreement that established the Permanent Joint Commission (JPC), which opened up collaboration in various strategic sectors.
The sectors include, education, health, agriculture, trade and investment, tourism, energy, transportation, defense and security, and immigration issues.
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Mr Byabato further emphasized on the Tanzanian government’s determination to continue working closely with the government of Burundi in order to further strengthen the relationship for the benefit of both parties and their people.
He also reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to being a reliable and trusted partner for Burundi in regional and international affairs.
On his part, the Burundian Ambassador to Tanzania, Mr Leontine Nzeyimana, explained that during the 62 years of independence, the nation is proud to have maintained good diplomatic relations with various countries around the world and neighboring countries in the East African region.
Ambassador Nzeyimana elaborated that in the economic sphere, Burundi continues to collaborate with various development partners, including Tanzania, where the Standard Gauge Railways (SGR) project is expected to connect the country to the Port of Dar es Salaam, thereby making a significant contribution to facilitating and increasing trade and investment between Tanzania and Burundi.
Statistics show that the trade between Tanzania and Burundi has continued to grow, reaching 212.8 million US dollars in 2022/2023, up from 61.3 million US dollars in 2017/2018.
Additionally, approximately 95 per cent of Burundi’s cargo passes through the port of Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania and Burundi cooperate closely at regional and international levels, including within the EAC, African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
