On the evening of 10 October 2023, the India-Rwanda Friendship Association (IRFA), in collaboration with the High Commission of Rwanda in India, unveiled the 2nd Edition of the book, "Stronger Together: A Collection of Essays on Rising Rwanda and Strategic Partnership with India". The event, held in New Delhi, saw the convergence of approximately 350 guests from the diplomatic corps, academia, and the business community. Also present were Hon. Kartikeya Sharma, Member of Rajya Sabha; Shri R. Santhanakrishnan, Former President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association; Aruneshwar Gupta, Advocate at the Supreme Court of India; Major General (Retd) Pawan Anand; Major General (Retd) Dr. Bipin Bakshi; and many others.

The book covers essays on different aspects, including Rwanda's recovery after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, its bilateral partnership with India, and the opportunities it presents for Indian investors. The launch was graced by speakers who contributed valuable insights into the book's rich content.

In her speech, Ms. Jacqueline MUKANGIRA, High Commissioner of Rwanda to India, expressed gratitude to the authors for their dedicated efforts in producing such an informative piece and acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda, Dr. Vincent Biruta, and the Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs of India, V. Muraleedharan. She conveyed that the book was initially released during the 2022 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Rwanda and is now being relaunched in India to provide Indian readers with a comprehensive understanding of Rwanda.

The High Commissioner encouraged Indian investment and tourism in Rwanda and highlighted Rwanda's favourable and competitive business environment.

She said: "Rwanda is open to welcoming investors in various sectors with potential opportunities, such as manufacturing infrastructure, real estate, affordable housing, tourism, health, education, cybersecurity, mining, and financial services."

Ms. MUKANGIRA further commended the solid bilateral relations between Rwanda and India. She stated that these relations have been steadily growing over the years, strengthened by high-level visits from both sides, including President Kagame's five visits to India and Prime Minister Modi's visit to Rwanda in July 2018.

Mr. Munish Gupta, President of IRFA, indicated that the Rwanda business landscape, competent and non-corrupt administration, as well as robust legal system, create a conducive environment for commercial activities. Additionally, he noted the mutual advantages that Rwanda and India should gain from south-south cooperation.
Mr. Abhilash Puljal, Secretary General of IRFA, pointed out that Rwanda's economic progress has been accompanied by notable improvements in the living standards of its people over the last three decades. He added that this progress results from the strength and resilience of the Rwandan people and the resolute focus of its leadership.

In his remarks, Professor Rama Rao, a prominent scholar, provided insights into Rwanda's dedication to visionary leadership. Professor Rama likened President Paul Kagame of Rwanda to the "Mandela of Today" and praised his pivotal role in elevating the country from a state of devastation to a commendable level of development. "H.E. President Kagame is a transformational leader. I was not a believer in miracles, but when I saw what he did for Rwanda, I believed miracles exist", he added.

Mr. Freddy Vinay, an investor in Rwanda, described the country as a unique hub for businesses and entrepreneurs. He underlined Rwanda's advantageous business ecosystem and its government's unwavering commitment to promoting foreign investments.

The India-Rwanda Friendship Association is a legally registered trust in India committed to promoting cultural and economic ties between India and Rwanda.