Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister for Development and International Organizations Affairs, represented the Government of the United Arab Emirates at the event, which brought together over 250 members of the diplomatic corps, friends of Rwanda, and Rwandan community members in the UAE.
In his address, Ambassador John Mirenge reflected on Rwanda's historic liberation on 4 July 1994, when the Rwanda Patriotic Army, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, brought an end to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This day, Amb. Mirenge noted, marks Rwanda's emergence from one of the darkest chapters in human history into a new era defined by resilience, unity, and national renewal.
'Rwanda's Liberation was anchored in a just cause: to restore dignity, promote unity, and build a nation where every citizen should belong and be proud to identify with,' Amb. Mirenge said.
He went on to emphasize that Rwanda's Liberation was not only a military triumph but also a moral standâ€"a fight to free Rwandans from decades of exclusion, oppression, and division rooted in colonial rule and perpetuated by post-independence regimes.
Today, Rwanda stands as a testament to resilience, renewal, and purpose. Over the past three decades, the country has rebuilt itself on three foundational pillars: unity, accountability, and ambition. This bold and forward-looking mindset, the Ambassador explained, has guided Rwanda's transformation, enabling it to secure lasting peace, drive sustained economic growth, and promote inclusive development.
Rwanda-UAE relations highlighted
The celebration also spotlighted the deepening bilateral ties between Rwanda and the United Arab Emirates.
'The UAE remains Rwanda's largest trading partner abroad, accounting for 63.9% of our exports in 2024. Bilateral trade exceeded USD 1.5 billion, while cumulative UAE investments in Rwanda surpassed USD 320 million,' the Ambassador noted.
Amb. Mirenge further used the occasion to call on investors and partners from the UAE to continue seizing opportunities in Rwanda's dynamic and inclusive economy.
'As we look ahead, we invite more investors, innovators, and partners from the UAE and beyond to join hands with Rwanda as we accelerate our shared vision for inclusive and sustainable growth. The potential is vast, and the partnership has never been stronger,' he urged.
The evening concluded with vibrant traditional performances by the UAE-based Uruyange and Abadahigwa cultural troupes, celebrating Rwanda's cultural richness.
IGIHE
