The Qutub Minar was aglow with the vibrant hues of the Rwandan national flag on Sunday, serving as a poignant symbol of solidarity with the people of Rwanda. This illumination ceremony marked the solemn occasion of the 30th anniversary of the devastating genocide that rocked the nation in 1994, resulting in the tragic loss of 800,000 lives. Representing India at the 30th commemoration of this harrowing event in Kigali was Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi from the Ministry of External Affairs.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, the official spokesperson of the MEA, Randhir Jaiswal, expressed India’s solidarity with Rwanda, stating, “In solidarity with the people of Rwanda, India lit up the Qutub Minar today, marking the UN International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.” The post also highlighted Secretary (ER) Dammu Ravi’s presence at the commemoration in Kigali. The 1994 Rwanda Genocide, known as Kwibuka 30, stands as one of the most horrific massacres of the 20th century, orchestrated by armed Hutu extremists. Rwandan President Paul Kagame led the commemorative activities on Sunday, laying wreaths at mass graves in Kigali. The event drew attendance from various foreign dignitaries, including former US President Bill Clinton, who acknowledged the genocide as one of the biggest failures of his administration.
Dammu Ravi’s visit to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya from April 7-12 holds significant diplomatic importance, as he engages in discussions with Rwandan officials and undertakes further engagements in Uganda and Kenya. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and explore opportunities for collaboration, particularly in the agricultural sector, as outlined during discussions between Prime Minister Modi and the President of Kenya in December 2023. During his time in Rwanda, Dammu Ravi held discussions with key figures such as MoS for Foreign Affairs James Kabarebe, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Uzziel Ndagijimana, and MoS for Agriculture Eric Rwigamba, focusing on bilateral interests.
Additionally, the press release from the MEA disclosed plans for Dammu Ravi’s subsequent meetings with ministers and officials of the Ugandan government, as well as engagements with the Indian community in Uganda. Looking ahead, the Secretary (ER) will lead a substantial delegation to Kenya, comprising officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Indian agricultural companies, and business chambers. This delegation seeks to explore avenues for agricultural development in Kenya, aligning with the agreements reached during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to India in December 2023.