Rwanda and the United States have signed a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) as part of broader efforts to strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.

Inked in Kigali Thursday, May 28, the deal, according to a statement by Rwanda's Ministry of Defence "will strengthen the existing good military cooperation between the United States of America and Rwanda."

Dr Vincent Biruta, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, signed on behalf of Rwanda while Amb.

Speaking about the development, Biruta said it "will cover U.S personnel and US contractors who may be temporarily present in the territory of the Republic of Rwanda in connection with ship visits, training exercises, humanitarian activities, and other activities as mutually agreed."

Rwanda and the US have for long had military partnership across different areas.