The Government of Belgium, yesterday, signed with their Rwandan counterpart, a new bilateral development cooperation framework worth �160 million.

A joint commission will guide Belgium development cooperation and interventions in Rwanda.

Dirk Achten of the Belgium Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the new financial commitment meant a qualitative and significant step forward in the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

�We earmarked �55 million for the health sector, another �55 million for energy, �28 million for decentralization. The rest will support ongoing projects,� he said.

The Indicative Cooperation Programme 2011-2014 is the first Belgian development framework since the Rwanda government endorsed the Division of Labor development plan in July 2010.

The new arrangement restricts development partners to be active in at least three sectors each, to ensure aid effectiveness.

John Rwangombwa, the Minister of Finance, explained that relations with Belgium have always been positive as they continue to support Rwanda�s aid effectiveness agenda.

By aligning to the division of labour, he called them a �model� Development Partner that others should emulate.

�The support promised to the energy, health and decentralization sectors will contribute towards sustainable development and improve dignified lives for all Rwandans,� Rwangombwa said.

Dr. Agnes Binangwaho, the Minister of Health and Rwanda�s Ambassador to Belgium, Robert Masozera, were among the dignitaries who witnessed the signing.

Rwanda is currently the second largest recipient of Belgian aid.

[New Times]