President Paul Kagame has commended the United States Senate and Congress for solidifying friendship with the government and people of Rwanda, a move which he said adds to the strong bilateral relations between the two countries.

He delivered the message on Saturday during a Prayer Breakfast hosted by Rwanda Leaders Fellowship which was attended by First Lady Jeannette Kagame and a U.S. Congressional delegation led by Oklahoma Republican Senator Jim Inhofe.

"We thank you for always finding time for us, visiting our country and sharing whatever there is that we can share and which always adds up to something that improves our country and adds to the progress we want to make,” he said.

The delegation has visited Rwanda many times since 1997.

"You are always appreciated when you visit our country when you come and be with our people and leaders. If you wish, this is your second home,” he said.

President Kagame also singled out Senator James Inhofe for championing the friendship between the US senate and Rwanda.

Prof. Shyaka Anastase, the Minister for Local Government reiterated that the friendship is a reflection of Godly values stressing that true friendship between the two countries shows true leadership.

Senator James Inhofe thanked President Kagame for having transformed the country, a journey that continues to shape the country’s image at international level.

He said that Rwanda has been transformed in a short time and drew comparisons of what the country looked like when he first visited 22 years ago in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

Senator Inhofe also lauded the government led by President Kagame for having adopted home-grown initiatives such as Umuganda, a monthly community service which has led to the country being one of the cleanest on the continent.

editorial@newtimesrwanda.com