NEW DELHI - India has commended the Rwandan Government and its people for the tremendous progress registered since the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tusti, and promised full support to the country’s quest for continued socio-economic development.

The pledge was made by Ratanjit Pratap Narain Singh, India’s Minister of State for Petroleum and Gas who was the chief guest at celebrations to mark the 17th anniversary of Liberation Day organised by the Rwanda High Commission in New Delhi.

According to a statement from the High Commission, over 280 Rwandans and friends of Rwanda attended.

"We are very keen, especially in my ministry, to cooperate in the area of petroleum and gas as well as encouraging our private sector to explore investment opportunities in Rwanda and participate in the country’s economic development,” he said.

In his remarks, the Rwandan envoy to India, Williams Nkurunziza, highlighted the importance of the day and what it means for Rwandans. 

"This day 17 Years ago, courage and extreme sacrifice by Rwandan sons and daughters led by our President Paul Kagame pulled our country from the cliff of self-annihilation. Today, our country is at peace; our liberators have become peacekeepers around the world; our democracy is secure and our economy is strong,” he said.

"To honour the memory of those who sacrificed so much or perished, our leadership is committed to building a more inclusive, more democratic society in which all Rwandan children can sweat together to craft shared prosperity.”

While acknowledging the support from friends of Rwanda, the High Commissioner emphasised the importance of equity and mutuality in such relationships or "solidarity of friends who value your right to uphold your dignity; to own your future and to shape your own destiny.”

The day also provided an opportunity to screen video clips on tourist attractions and investment opportunities in Rwanda after which the High Commissioner called upon entrepreneurs present to explore investment and business opportunities in Rwanda. 

 The colourful ceremony was also attended by Amb. Gurjit Singh, Joint Secretary in the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, other Indian Government representatives, the Dean of the diplomatic corps, and other ambassadors, and high commissioners.

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