The Rwandan Ambassador to France, Jacques Kabale presented his letter of credence to the Italian President Giorgio Napolitano.

Kabale, who resides in Paris, presented his credentials during a function held at President Napolitano’s residence at a ceremony attended by several Italian government officials.

According to a statement from the embassy, Kabale carried with him a message of friendship and esteem from President Paul Kagame. 

"The message contained Rwanda’s will for cooperation with Italy. Following the discussion, it was clear that both the Rwandan and Italian presidents have a similar understanding on aid for development,” reads a statement.

The statement adds that both Heads of State believe that home grown initiatives are better than reliance on foreign aid.

"Kabale briefed President Napolitano on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the reconciliation that followed and the current state of affairs in Rwanda,”reads the statement.

"President Napolitano was curious to know how Rwanda has since succeeded to become one of the few countries on track to achieve the MDGs and the country’s progress in peacekeeping missions.”

The statement adds that following Kabale’s explanation, President Napolitano said that it was necessary for his country to form a partnership with Rwanda.

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