I want to begin with some words of thanks. First, to my fellow Heads of State and Government from Africa, your presence here confirms, that these efforts enjoy the broad support necessary to succeed. I also thank Minister of State Khulaifi, representing His Highness Emir Tamim bin Hamad of Qatar. The role of Qatar has been absolutely central, in getting us to this point. But, of course, the biggest vote of thanks goes to President Donald Trump. No one was asking President Trump to take up this task. Our region is far from the headlines. But when he saw the opportunity to contribute to peace, he immediately took it. This conflict has lasted for thirty years. We have seen countless mediation efforts, but none has succeeded in resolving the underlying issues. President Trump introduced a new and effective dynamism that created the space for breakthroughs. His approach is even-handed, never taking sides. He orients us toward the future, not the past, emphasizing that the dividend of peace is prosperity and investment, including from the United States. More importantly, President Trump’s approach is pragmatic. The process has not become an end in itself. All of these elements filtered down to his dedicated team, and here I want to single out Secretary Marco Rubio, and Massad Boulos, for special appreciation. We would not be here today, without their efforts. And as a result, we have the clearest and most viable path forward that we have ever had. These accords provide everything needed to end this conflict, once and for all. If this agreement falters, and things do not work out as they are supposed to, the responsibility will not lie with President Trump, but with ourselves. It is up to us, in Africa, working with our partners, to consolidate and expand this peace. There will be ups and downs on the road ahead, there is no doubt about it. Rwanda, I know, will not be found wanting. I can assure you of that. Our only objective is, and has always been, for our country to be safe and secure, after having endured so much tragedy. We now only want to look forward, in confident expectation of a prosperous and stable future. Mr President, Excellencies, I thank you for your kind attention.
