Editor,

RE: "Chinese festival to strengthen cultural ties with Rwanda” (The New Times, January 23).

Sports and culture help nations develop strong bonds. These then translate into enhanced trade, tourism and investments.

A "Festival of India” in Kigali would surely go a long way in strengthening ties with Rwanda.

Indian investments are on the increase in Rwanda. Just recently, a world class ten million-dollar university campus was set up by an Indian investor in Kabuga, a Kigali suburb.

Given the required impetus from Rwanda’s Ministry of Sports and Culture, I am confident that the pro-active Indian Association of Rwanda (INAR), together with the Mahatma Gandhi University, will work with all concerned agencies to host a memorable festival, which will not only strengthen cultural ties but also enhance trade and tourism into Remarkable Rwanda.

Clarence Fernandes