KIGALI - The British Ambassador to Rwanda, Nicholas Canon, yesterday hailed government’s development progress over the last 15 years stating that the country is at the frontline of new development approaches.

This was during the celebrations that were held at the Ambassador’s residence in Kacyiru to mark Her Majesty, the Queen of England’s 83rd birthday.

While addressing guests at the occasion, Canon highlighted Rwanda’s significant strides in the land registration progress, climate change and general reports from the joint assessment programmes.

"Development experts here and in London recognize Rwanda’s development approaches and we expect that the lessons learnt here will be rolled out to the rest of Africa,” he said.

Citing the Democratic Republic of Congo as an example, Canon also commended government’s transformation towards unity with her neighbors emphasizing that although the situation remains fragile, the steps taken so far show great improvement.

"The country’s relationship with the United Kingdom has also continued to strengthen and deepen, over time and this year, we will give assistance to Rwanda that amounts to £50 million which will directly go the national budget,” he added.

As Rwanda continues to proceed with the integration procedures of the East African Community, the Ambassador also expressed great optimism that by this time next year, the country will have ascended to the Commonwealth group of nations as well.

The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, James Musoni, congratulated the British community upon Her Majesty’s birthday celebrations thanking the United Kingdom for their supportive hand in ensuring that nations around the world are governed democratically.

"The United Kingdom’s experience of democracy is today regarded as one of the greatest heritage of global humanity. Indeed in Rwanda we are seeking to be part of these noble ideals as we strive to create our own strategic vision.”

"The UK has since the early phase of national reconstruction after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, been supporting Rwanda in many strategic sectors including education, poverty reduction, governance, human resource development and direct budget support.”

Musoni therefore thanked United Kingdom government for their continuous support assuring them that all the support will be used to significantly develop the country further.

The function was attended by various high profile government officials, Ambassadors and regional representatives among others.

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II was born in 1926 and her birthday is celebrated in June each year.

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