Minister Louise Mushikiwabo
Louise Mushikiwabo, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has said that Rwanda enjoys excellent relations with the United States.
She made the remarks yesterday while speaking at the event held at the US embassy in Kigali to celebrate 236th American Day of Independence.
United States citizens in Rwanda together with Rwandan government officials and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Kigali Tuesday evening gathered at the US embassy in Kigali to observe the American Day of Independence.
The day is usually marked on July 4 but the US embassy shifted the event one day before as it coincides with Rwanda’s Liberation Day.
“The relations between Rwanda and US have continued to grow over the years and are characterised by mutual respect and dialogue to address existing and emerging issues of common concern and interest,” Mushikiwabo said.
She hailed the US government for the supports it continues to render to Rwanda especially in the areas of health, governance, poverty reduction programs and as well as support to the national budget.
“The United States’ support the health sector through the PEPFAR Emergency Plan for Aids relief, the Malaria initiatives, and the Intra-Health program have all greatly increased the life expectancy of Rwandese citizens. We are very grateful for that.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs asserted that Rwandans appreciate the mutual support between the United States and Rwanda in the International Political and Economic arena.
“The United States has not kept a blind eye at the developments in the Great Lakes Region. I appreciate her invaluable role in the Conflict resolution, peace building, and humanitarian support rendered to the whole peace process in the region and beyond.”
She commended US for the support rendered to resolve conflicts in the Great Lakes Region, especially the assistance provided to the Rwanda Peace Mission in Darfur
“Rwanda’s option to participate in peacekeeping mission was prompted by its conviction to fight any form of abuse of human rights and genocidal tendencies? As Rwanda continues to fight the legacy of genocide, we are happy to note that the people of the United States share the same vision of the affirmation of humanity,” she emphasized.
Addressing guests at the colourful event, Donald W. Koran, the US ambassador to Rwanda said: “As we celebrate this day, we know that Rwandans share these same ideals that we hold so dear, and with this in common, we are able to come together to do great things.”
“Our presence here in Rwanda is a reflection of the very real value weplace on our relationship, and of our mutual desire to collaborate on Rwanda’s continued progress away from the scars of its past into a bright future.”
Koran commended the government of Rwanda for its close cooperation with US for over the years.