The reign of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom has been influential in developing strong ties between East Africa and the UK, Louise Mushikiwabo, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation said on Thursday evening during celebrations to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

The celebrations, which were hosted at the residence of the British High Commissioner to Rwanda, Benedict Llewellyn-Jones, attracted the British community working in Rwanda, several senior government officials, business leaders, as well as members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Rwanda.

"Her Majesty has reigned over UK and her dominions far longer than my lifetime; I am aware that Her Majesty has always had affinity and interest in Africa, and indeed became Queen in 1952 while in our East African region, specifically in Kenya, upon receiving the news of the unfortunate demise of her father, King George. This brings the Diamond Jubilee close to us in Rwanda,” Mushikiwabo told the crowd.

"Queen Elizabeth II is the Head of the Commonwealth, a family of nations held together by common commitment to principles of democracy, human rights and development. Rwanda is profoundly proud to be part of this august club,” she said.

Mushikiwabo recognized UK’s role in the reconstruction of Rwanda, particularly in the immediate aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, specifically in the areas of education, poverty reduction, governance and public financial management.

On his part, Llewellyn-Jones paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II for the positive impact she has had on the world.

"The Diamond Jubilee is a testament not simply to Her Majesty’s longevity but also her public service. From her accession to the throne in 1952 until the present day she has worked tirelessly for the citizens of Britain and of the Commonwealth, of which Rwanda is the youngest member,” Llewellyn-Jones said.

"UK is very proud of its relationship with Rwandans. Rwanda sets its development goals and we support them. Strong direction from the Rwandan government and in particular, President Paul Kagame, is important in ensuring Rwanda own and manages its own development agenda.”

The UK is the largest single donor to Rwanda and three quarters of its financial support is channeled through the national budget.