Former British Prime minister, Tony Blair, in his message on the 17th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, has thanked Rwandans for their hard work, determination and compassion,.

"My deepest sympathies go to the people of Rwanda during this difficult period, but I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Rwandan people on the incredible rebirth that their country is experiencing in the years since 1994,” Blair said.

He added: "Today, Rwanda is a country transformed through the formidable leadership of President Paul Kagame, matched as ever, by the hard work, determination and compassion of its remarkable people, and it shows.”

Blair, who is a pro bono advisor to President Kagame, noted that in a matter of years, Rwanda has become a role model for Africa and an inspiration to the entire world.

"Today, Rwandan soldiers are helping to keep the peace in Darfur. It is the least corrupt country, the most stable country in Africa,” he said, as he quoted recent World Bank indicators, which put Rwanda top on the best reformers’ list.

The former premier nonetheless, acknowledged that Rwanda has a long way to go to achieve its goals, ambitions and vision.

"This exceptional country has shown that accelerated development is possible. And I believe it is heading in the right direction,” he observed.

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