13 November,2023: On the eve of October 10, 2023, the India-Rwanda Friendship Association (IRFA) joined hands with the High Commission of Rwanda in India to present the eagerly anticipated 2nd Edition of “Stronger Together: A Collection of Essays on Rising Rwanda and Strategic Partnership with India.” This momentous event, held in New Delhi, attracted around 350 distinguished guests, including representatives from the diplomatic community, academia, and the business sector. Among the attendees were notable figures such as Hon. Kartikeya Sharma, Member of Rajya Sabha, and Major General (Retd) Dr. Bipin Bakshi.
The book delves into diverse facets of Rwanda’s trajectory, encompassing its recovery post the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, its symbiotic relationship with India, and the promising avenues it offers for Indian investors. The launch ceremony featured speakers who provided profound insights into the rich content of the book.
Ms. Jacqueline Mukangira, the High Commissioner of Rwanda to India, expressed gratitude for the authors’ dedication in crafting this informative piece. She acknowledged the contributions of Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Vincent Biruta, and India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, V. Muraleedharan. The High Commissioner highlighted that the book, initially unveiled during the 2022 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Rwanda, was being reintroduced in India to offer readers a comprehensive understanding of Rwanda.
Encouraging Indian investment and tourism, Ms. Mukangira emphasized Rwanda’s favorable and competitive business environment. She declared, “Rwanda is open to welcoming investors in various sectors,” ranging from manufacturing and infrastructure to real estate, tourism, health, education, cybersecurity, mining, and financial services.
Munish Gupta, President of IRFA, underscored Rwanda’s business-friendly landscape, competent administration, and robust legal system. He emphasized the mutual advantages that Rwanda and India stand to gain from south-south cooperation.
Mr. Abhilash, Secretary General of IRFA, noted Rwanda’s economic progress over the last three decades and attributed it to the resilience of the Rwandan people and the steadfast focus of its leadership.
In his remarks, Professor Rama Rao lauded President Paul Kagame as the “Mandela of Today,” commending his transformative leadership. Mr. Freddy Vinay, an investor in Rwanda, hailed the country as a unique hub for businesses and entrepreneurs, citing Rwanda’s advantageous business ecosystem and the government’s commitment to promoting foreign investments.
The India-Rwanda Friendship Association, a legally registered trust in India, remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering cultural and economic ties between the two nations.