Rwandans in Turkey on Friday celebrated the country’s 22nd Liberation Day in Ankara under the theme: "Together we prosper.”

Over 250 guests, including Turkish Government representatives, Ambassadors, Turkish business people, Friends of Rwanda and Rwandan nationals living in Turkey, attended the ceremony, led by Ambassador Williams Nkurunziza, Rwanda’s envoy to Turkey.

Speaking at the event, Turkish Deputy Economy Minister, Hon. Fatih Metin, congratulated Rwanda on its Liberation Day and commended the excellent relationship between the two countries.

"We consider Rwanda as an important partner in East Africa. We follow with interest Rwanda’s impressive progress in the social and economic fields under the able leadership of President Paul Kagame ” the Deputy Minister said, adding that he and his government are keen to see more Turkish investments into Rwanda and increased trade between the two countries.

Amb. Nkurunziza thanked the minister and his government for their solidarity and friendship.

"As we celebrate this day, we do so with profound gratitude to the government and people of Turkeyfor your solidarity and friendship. We cherish this relationship; this bridge to shared prosperity. Like you, we believe in the indivisibility of peace and progress. Like you, we know prosperity endures when humanity pulls, together. We have seen this in increased Turkish investment into Rwanda and growing trade between our two countries. We can do more – and we Must," the Ambassador said.

He also thanked all guests for gracing the event as Rwanda celebrates its journey from a dark past to a brighter present.

"For all Rwandans, Liberation Day is more than a date in history. It is the defining moment when the sun shone on a new season in which Rwandans chose to reject political demagogues and embrace not just visionary leaders, but leaders who deliver on their vision. President Kagame and his government have crafted and executed one of the most amazing national turn-arounds of our time, indeed of all time,” Amb. Nkurunziza said.

"Liberation Day is an enduring symbol and an affirmation of our people’s right to pursue programmes at home and secure relationship abroad that will free them from want by building shared prosperity underpinned by peace and security,” he added.

Guests were treated to Rwandan music and dance. Videos of Rwanda’s tourism and investment potential were also screened during the event and generated spirited discussions among the guests, especially members of the Turkish business community that included the Ankara Chamber of Industry President, Mr. Nurettin Özdebir and members of the Rwanda-Turkey Business Council.

During the ceremony, there was also tasting of Rwandan Coffee, courtesy of the Ankara-based Roast’n Berry, a company that imports, processes and sells Rwandan coffee in Ankara.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw