President Kagame made these remarks during a New Year press conference on January 9, 2025, where he addressed various topics.
In response to a question from an Al Jazeera journalist about what new developments might be expected from the new U.S. administration regarding issues in the DRC, President Kagame stated that he respects the changes that have occurred in the country, acknowledging that they were made for good reasons.
'I respect the change that has taken place in the United States, because for it to happen, it must have been for very good reasons that The Americans endorsed in their vote,' he said.
Kagame also noted that although there has been a change in leadership through democratic processes, the country's approach to political issues is expected to evolve.
'There are many things, even geopolitically, at least the approach, that are going to change for sure [...] I think that it will be the same to the approach of how African matters may be dealt with generally and also specifically with Eastern Congo. The same might see change happen,' he said.
'That's what I think from a distance and just waiting for what will follow,' he added.
The President highlighted that changes are taking place not only in the United States but also across the globe at a "terrific pace" and stressed the importance of hard work to thrive in this "whirlwind."
Donald Trump, of the Republican Party, won the U.S. presidential elections held on November 5, 2024. He defeated his main rival, Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party, securing 277 Electoral College votes to Harris's 224.
After the elections concluded, President Kagame congratulated Donald Trump on his victory and pledged to continue cooperation between Rwanda and the U.S. for mutual benefits in the years ahead.
Trump is expected to take the oath of office as the 47th U.S. President on January 20, 2025.
Throughout his campaign, Trump emphasized that restoring America's dignity would involve refraining from interventionism, focusing instead on strengthening America as a global hub, and improving the quality of life for Americans.
IGIHE
