Kigali, Thursday 27 May 2021 - French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Rwanda on Thursday for a two-day official visit to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation between Rwanda and France.

President Macron visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial site - the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi - where he laid a wreath to pay tribute to the victims. In his address at the memorial, President Macron said that only survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi can forgive France for her historical and political responsibility in Rwanda.

President Macron said: "As I stand with humility and respect at your side on this day, I come to recognise the magnitude of our responsibilities."

Furthermore, President Kagame alongside President Macron held a bilateral meeting and a joint press conference during which both Presidents observed the signing of two bilateral agreements that include a framework for bilateral cooperation and an agreement for sports and talent development.

In his remarks, President Kagame hailed the statement made by President Emmanuel Macron at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, by calling it a powerful speech, with special meaning, and which will resonate beyond Rwanda.

“His words were something more valuable than an apology: they were the truth” President Kagame said, stressing that speaking the truth is risky. But you do it because it is right, even when it is costs you something and even when it is unpopular.  

“Despite some loud noises and voices, President Macron took this step. Politically and morally, this was an act of tremendous courage.” President Kagame added.

President Macron underlined that the new opened page in the bilateral relations between Rwanda and France will amplify the partnerships that both countries have embarked on against several common challenges. He also stated that France will speed up the efforts to bring to justice genocide fugitives who live in safe havens in France.

President Macron took part in other functions that include, the inauguration of Francophone Cultural Centre of Rwanda, visiting IPRC Tumba where a Mechatronics Department will be set up through partnership with the French Development Agency, and a tour at the Gikondo Health Centre where he witnessed Rwanda’s efforts in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic, and announced a donation of 117,600 doses of vaccine to Rwanda.