The United States Ambassador to Rwanda, Erica Barks-Ruggles, has said that both Rwanda and her country have a lot in common including celebrating July 4 as special days in both countries.

Amb. Barks-Ruggles was speaking Thursday at an event to celebrate 241st anniversary of the US Independence Day.

For Rwandans, July 4 is Liberation Day and is remembered as the day when the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was brought to an end.

"This [July 4] is symbolic of the two countries shared values: the belief that all human beings are valuable and created equal,” Barks-Ruggles said.

The event was attended by US citizens living in Rwanda, government officials, and partners and friends of the American people.

Barks-Ruggles added that Rwandans celebrating with Americans signified the strong friendship and partnership between the two countries.

The Minister for Trade, Industry and East African Community Affairs, François Kanimba, said the fruits of the meaningful relationship have benefited Rwandans through various sectors and projects, including agriculture production, provision of basic health services, fostering of business opportunities in rural areas, among others.

Kanimba said the US has continued to be Rwanda’s leading source of investment flow, thus providing economic opportunities and prosperity for Rwandans.

"The positive role of American people is clear and visible in Rwanda’s transformation journey. We highly value this partnership, especially in our development agenda, and urge all of us to create a better future for those behind us.”

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