Rwanda’s Ambassador to Switzerland, Soline Nyirahabimana, on Thursday, presented her letter of credence to Micheline Calmy-Rey, the President of Switzerland.

Nyirahabimana, who is also Rwanda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva and International Organisations in Switzerland, presented her credentials to the President at the Federal Palace in Bern.

During her talks with the Swiss President, Nyirahabimana expressed Rwanda’s interest in furthering relations with the European country.

A statement from the embassy indicates that during their discussions, Nyirahabimana confirmed that she intends to work with Swiss authorities and institutions to strengthen the existing cooperation and relationship between the two countries in various areas.

"The Ambassador expressed the wish to set up a Joint Permanent Commission between Rwanda and Switzerland, to serve as a framework for the two governments for a consultation on all matters relating to the cooperation between both countries, through mutual respect,” reads the statement.

Nyirabimana briefed the Swiss President on the current socio-economic and political situation in Rwanda, including some of the achievements in various areas as in education, health, gender and ICT sectors.

She also pointed out some home grown initiatives which are helping to reduce poverty and boost economic development in Rwanda such as Ubudehe, Girinka (One cow per poor family), community work (Umuganda) and many more”.

The Swiss President acknowledged the progress made in various areas by the Rwandan people and informed the new envoy that her government is ready to continue working with Rwandan authorities to sustain the cooperation between the two countries.

The Swiss President, Calmy-Rey, visited Rwanda in July 2007.

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