Editor,I am sure all Rwandans and friends of Rwanda will be proud to read the interesting article in yesterday’s issue of The New Times, titled ‘AU backs Kigali for UN seat.’The very fact that the African Union has supported Rwanda to replaceSouth Africa at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and occupy the two - year, non-permanent rotational seat reserved for Eastern and Southern Africa, speaks volumes for the tremendous progress made by the country. This is a unique honor and serves as an indicator that Rwanda can take a pride of place among the great nations of the world.Rwanda has increasingly become a key player in international affairs, particularly ‘exporting’ peace to troubled regions and showing support for the repressed communities.

It maintains thousands of peacekeepers in African countries and beyond and has played a key role in the relative stability that of the Great Lakes region. But the country has also led from the front in other areas including economic progress and the Millennium Development Goals. Rwanda has a lot to contribute to the community of nations.It is also very encouraging to read that my own country, India, has also supported Rwanda for this position. This shows that there is an enhanced level of understanding and cooperation between our two great nations.Wishing Rwanda every success in the September elections.Clarence Fernandes