The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in collaboration with the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), organised an event in Islamabad to commemorate Rwanda Liberation Day.
The proceedings began with the national anthems of Pakistan and Rwanda. Speakers at the event included Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman, Board of Governors, ISSI; High Commissioner Harerimana Fatou of Rwanda to Pakistan; High Commissioner Muhammad Naeem Khan of Pakistan to Rwanda; and Dr. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA. Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, President PAIDAR, was the chief guest.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood said Rwanda Liberation Day commemorates the country’s journey from the tragedy of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to peace, reconciliation and development. He said Pakistan values its growing partnership with Rwanda and recalled historical linkages, including Pakistan’s contribution to UN peacekeeping and post genocide recovery efforts. He also paid tribute to former Foreign Secretary Shaharyar M. Khan, who served as the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative for Rwanda during a critical period. He said the opening of diplomatic missions in Kigali and Islamabad had created new opportunities in trade, education, technology and people to-people exchanges.
Dr. Amina Khan said Rwanda Liberation Day symbolises Rwanda’s transformation from tragedy to peace, reconciliation and sustainable development. She said CAMEA remains committed to strengthening Pakistan’s engagement with Africa through institutional linkages and dialogue with African partners. She also welcomed the momentum created by the opening of diplomatic missions and appreciated the efforts of the Pakistani and Rwandan envoys in deepening bilateral cooperation.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed praised Rwanda’s journey of resilience, reconciliation and socio economic transformation, describing it as a model of stability, modernisation and digital progress. He also highlighted Pakistan’s support for African liberation movements and noted the growing momentum in Pakistan Rwanda relations after recent high level diplomatic exchanges.
High Commissioner Harerimana Fatou paid tribute to the soldiers of the Rwanda Patriotic Army who sacrificed their lives during the country’s struggle. She said their courage laid the foundation for Rwanda’s transformation into one of Africa’s cleanest, greenest and most innovative nations. She highlighted Rwanda’s achievements in artificial intelligence, digital innovation, healthcare and peaceful nuclear energy, and said the country has emerged as a leading conference destination. She also stressed the need to expand bilateral and multilateral cooperation, especially in climate change and green energy.
High Commissioner Muhammad Naeem Khan said Rwanda Liberation Day is a historic milestone that reflects the country’s achievements in peace, development and nation building. He praised Rwanda’s progress in digitalisation, governance, public service delivery and transparent development, saying it offers lessons for other countries. He also pointed to high level visits and business delegations that have helped increase bilateral trade, and encouraged Pakistani businesses and tourists to explore opportunities in Rwanda.
