The Charge d'Affaires at the Qatari Embassy, Ali Bin Hamad Al Aida, hosted the guests and highlighted the significance of the occasion. In his address, Al Aida commemorated the leadership of Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, who founded the nation on December 18, 1878, and praised Qatar's development over the last 146 years.
'Qatar has grown into a beacon of progress and achievement. Under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, our country continues to advance a purposeful national vision, reflected in our remarkable strides in human, economic, social, and environmental development,' Al Aida said.
The Charge d'Affaires further emphasized Qatar's consistent role as a reliable global partner, citing its policies grounded in cooperation, transparency, and balance. He underscored the strong and flourishing relations between Qatar and Rwanda, describing them as a testament to shared aspirations.
'Qatar-Rwanda relations have flourished across multiple domains, evolving into a strategic and long-term partnership under the leadership of both nations,' Al Aida noted.
He highlighted the Bugesera International Airport project as a transformative initiative that reflects the shared vision of both nations, describing it as one of the largest infrastructure projects in the region.
Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, celebrated the deepening bilateral ties between Qatar and Rwanda. He acknowledged Qatar's visionary leadership and praised the country's remarkable achievements in fostering global prosperity and development.
'Rwanda values the excellent relations between our two countries and reaffirms its commitment to strengthen further the cooperation in areas of mutual interest for the benefit of our people,' Nduhungirehe said.
He commended Qatar for successfully organizing significant global events, including the Doha Forum and the Formula One Qatar Airways Grand Prix, which were attended by President Kagame.
Nduhungirehe highlighted Rwanda's recent bid to host a Formula One Grand Prix, underscoring Qatar's experience as a valuable reference.
'We are looking forward to learning from the experience of countries like Qatar, with which Rwanda takes inspiration,' he stated.
The Minister also took a moment to honor the late Qatari Ambassador Misfer bin Faisal Al Shahwani, who passed away in July this year. He described him as a distinguished diplomat who played an active role in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
Further reflecting on the achievements of Qatar-Rwanda cooperation, Nduhungirehe emphasized the importance of the $1.3 billion Bugesera International Airport project, where Qatar Airways holds a 60% investment stake. He described it as a gateway for increased opportunities for people and businesses in the region.
The Minister praised Qatar's contributions to capacity building in Rwanda through the Qatar Fund for Development. He highlighted the role of scholarships in providing world-class education to Rwandans and preparing youth for the jobs of the future.
'By equipping the youth with the right skills, we are creating the ideal conditions for our societies to grow more prosperous,' he said.
Nduhungirehe also acknowledged Qatar's role in sports development in Rwanda through its partnership with Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, which fosters talent and strengthens the country's sports ecosystem.
During the celebration, recognition gifts were presented to various stakeholders for their contributions to the embassy's operations and activities. Among the honored partners was IGIHE, recognized for its exemplary support as a valued working media partner.
The evening was marked by a spirit of camaraderie as guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner and celebrated the growing partnership between Rwanda and Qatar. Both Al Aida and Nduhungirehe reaffirmed their nations' commitment to fostering peace, development, and shared prosperity.
In closing, remarks. Nduhungirehe affirmed that Rwanda highly appreciates the continued and fortified partnership displayed between the two countries and that the ongoing collaboration would continue to build a bright future for both of our nations.
Sam K Nkurunziza
