![Burundi [shutterstock]](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20201218093405im_/https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Burundi-e1555940474389-2503x1406.jpg)
International Travel Information
What you need to know before you go: visas, Embassy & Consulate locations, vaccinations, etc.
International Travel Information: Learn MoreHighlights
July 1, 2020
June 19, 2020
June 10, 2020
U.S. Relationship
U.S.-Burundi Relations
In 1962, the U.S. established diplomatic relations with Burundi when it gained its independence from Belgium. The U.S. supports the achievement of long-term stability, prosperity, and good governance in Burundi through broad, inclusive reconciliation; humanitarian assistance; economic growth; and the promotion of political openness and expansion of democratic freedoms. The U.S. seeks to facilitate Burundi’s deeper integration into regional and international markets as a means to promote sustainable economic development.
U.S. Assistance to Burundi
The majority of U.S. foreign assistance in Burundi contributes to improving the health and food security sectors. U.S. foreign assistance promotes private sector-led economic growth, emphasizing agricultural production and trade (particularly within the East African Community common market) to build Burundi’s capacity to maintain peace and security both at home and elsewhere in Africa. U.S. development assistance seeks to prioritize youth and women in order to bolster the whole society more effectively.
Bilateral Economic Relations
Burundi’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act was suspended in October 2015, but remains under review. The U.S. has signed trade and investment framework agreements with the East African Community and with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa. Burundi is a member of both regional organizations. The primary U.S. exports to Burundi include computer and electronic products. The U.S. imports coffee and other agricultural products from Burundi.
![Burundi Flag: Divided by a white diagonal cross into red panels (top and bottom) and green panels (hoist side and fly side) with a white disk superimposed at the center bearing three red six-pointed stars outlined in green arranged in a triangular design (one star above, two stars below); green symbolizes hope and optimism, white purity and peace, and red the blood shed in the struggle for independence; the three stars in the disk represent the three major ethnic groups: Hutu, Twa, Tutsi, as well as the three elements in the national motto: unity, work, progress. [CIA World Fact Book]](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20201218093405im_/https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Burundi-flag.gif){kind=small}