On 6 July 2012 Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, H.E. Christine Nkulikiyinka, hosted a reception on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Independence and the 18th Anniversary of Liberation.
Over 90 guests followed the invitation, among them were representatives of the German government, head of diplomatic missions representing their governments, such as Belgium, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Luxembourg, Georgia, Bangladesh, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Morocco and others. Members of the Rwandan community living in Germany also participated in the celebration.
In her welcoming speech, Ambassador Nkulikiyinka thanked the guests for their solidarity and friendship for the Rwandan people. She presented some of the key achievements made in Rwanda, noting that they would not have been possible without successful cooperation and support from friendly nations.
She particularly thanked the German government for the trust and sustainable cooperation shown to Rwanda.
Ambassador Nkulikiyinka remarked that the celebration of Rwanda’s independence and liberation should be an occasion for reflection.
Given Rwanda’s recent history the struggle for self-determination, equality and peace continues to be in the forefront of Rwanda’s efforts for the building of a better future, Rwanda’s envoy said.
“In Rwanda, the notion of independence had lost relevance when natural and basic right to life was denied to a section of the Rwandan population.
For three decades after the independence, Rwanda suffered bad governance characterized by discrimination, hatred and cycling killings that culminated in to the 1994 genocide against Tutsi.
Despite the seemingly insurmountable consequences of the genocide, Rwanda successfully embarked upon a path of reconstruction, reconciliation, nation building and development.”
Dr. Wolfgang Manig, head of division responsible for the Great Lakes region in the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representing the German government, delivered the German government’s message of congratulations for the two national anniversaries.
He said that Germany was impressed by the many positive developments taking place in Rwanda, especially the success of the Gacaca jurisdiction.
Dr. Manig further said that Rwanda continues to be an example for good governance, peace building and the promotion of regional stability in Africa and elsewhere.
He commended the Rwandan people for their resilience and commitment to work for a peaceful and prosperous country. Dr. Manig assured the continued support of the German government for the people and government of Rwanda.
Germany and Rwanda enjoy good bilateral relations, ranging from technical cooperation to cultural exchanges. Germany is among the few donors that supports Rwanda through budget support.
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