India has extended $200 million lines of credit to Rwanda as Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on a three-nation African tour reached Rwanda on July 24 and held talks with President Paul Kagame and discussed measures to strengthen bilateral ties by in defence, trade and agriculture sectors.
While addressing a sizeable group of the Indian community in Rwanda, PM Modi hailed the Indian diaspora living outside India as ‘rashtradoots’ or ambassadors for the country.
“I am delighted to interact with the Indian community in Rwanda. All over the world, the Indian diaspora is making a mark. They are now our ‘Rashtradoots’,” Pm Modi added.
While highlighting NDA-led government schemes which have benefitted the Indian population in the last four years PM Modi said that eight crore toilets were constructed across the country and lakhs of villages were now Open Defecation Free under the Swachh Bharat initiative.
“When India completed 70 years of Independence, 18,000 villages were having no electricity. We made a decision to ensure electricity in every home in the next 1,000 days. And we did it. Still, four crore houses have no electricity, but we will achieve this in one year” he added.
India and Rwanda also signed MoUs on collaboration in the areas of leather and allied sectors, dairy cooperation, agricultural research and education collaborations between Rwanda Agricultural Board and Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
While addressing a joint statement in Kigali along with President Kagame, PM Modi said, “We are going to open a High Commission in Rwanda soon. This will not only establish communication between our respective governments but also enable facilities for consular, passport, visa and other services.”
President Kagame in his remarks said that PM Modi’s visit represents a milestone between the long-standing friendship between Rwanda and India.
After finishing his engagements in Rwanda, PM will travel to Uganda, where he will hold meetings and other engagements on July 24 and 25.
