The recent repatriation of about three thousand Rwandans from Uganda was an indication that the two countries enjoy excellent bilateral relations, Uganda’s Ambassador to Rwanda, has said. Richard Kabonero was speaking at his residence in Nyarutarama on Tuesday during the occasion to mark his country’s 45th Independence anniversary. The returnees who are commonly referred to as the ‘Kibati group’ were repatriated last week from Kibati zone in Uganda’s Isingiro district. Women returnees have since been transported to their respective homes, while men have been taken to Mutobo solidarity camp where they will have lessons on reconciliation, justice and development. Kabonero observed that the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) mechanism in which Rwanda and Uganda address security issues and foster bilateral ties was yielding fruits.Rwanda’s State Minister for Regional Cooperation Rosemary Museminari noted that the two countries have had successful partnerships in as many sectors. She said the neighboring states have a lot in common, and expressed optimism that once the Kampala-Kigali pipeline construction is complete, trade between them will get to even greater heights. “We join the people of Uganda in celebrating this day because what both countries have attained so far is for the benefit of all of us,” Museminari said to a thunderous applause. The function was attended by several government dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Rwanda, among others. Meanwhile, Foreign minister Dr Charles Murigande attended Uganda’s main Independence Day celebrations at Kololo Airstrip in Kampala. Ends
