The Embassy of Rwanda in Berlin, Germany, on Monday hosted a reception on the occasion of the 20th Rwandan Liberation Day, with over 140 guests.

Rwanda’s envoy to Berlin, Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka and the German Foreign Office’s State Secretary Stephan Steinlein presided over the festivities.

The envoy explained the long way Rwanda has come since it was liberated from a genocidal regime. And she paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the liberation struggle.

"We are grateful for their sacrifices and express our recognition towards their families bearing the individual consequences of those sacrifices,” Ambassador Nkulikiyinka said.

Noting that liberation came with the responsibility to shape the country’s future, she highlighted how Rwanda had found home-grown solutions for the post-genocide challenges.

Steinlein said he was  impressed by the country's reconciliation processes and economic development.

He commended Rwanda's role in peacekeeping efforts in Mali, South Sudan and the Central African Republic.

"We also pay recognition to your commitment to strengthening democratisation and an open society. We commend the new Criminal Code, new media laws and the peaceful parliamentary elections in 2013, and we pledge our continued cooperation in this respect,” he said.

He affirmed his government’s commitment to strong ties with Rwanda reflected in vivid partnerships such as the "Jumelage” connecting people in Rwanda and Rhineland-Palatinate.

"Please be assured that Germany continues to be, now and in the future, a reliable partner for Rwanda.”

The evening was marked with performances of professional cultural group, Ihanika, which provided the guests with a flavour of Rwandan culture.