Deputy Minister Ahmet Yıldız during his interview with RNA journalist André Gakwaya
Kigali: Ahmet Yıldız, Turkish Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, is visiting Rwanda for the first time to attend the 30th Commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi. He sat down with André Gakwaya of Rwanda News Agency (RNA) to discuss his country’s relations with Rwanda.
RNA: You are here to participate in the commemoration of the Genocide against Tutsi.
A.Y. – I am here to represent President Erdogan at the Ceremonies. I am Deputy Minister responsible for Africa, Middle East and South Asia. I served as Turkish Ambassador in Bosnia, a country that has also survived the Genocide in the 1990’s . Rwanda is a success story which rose from its ashes and has many achievements since then. I am certain that I will benefit greatly from this visit to Rwanda during my next position as Turkish Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
RNA: What are Türkiye’s sentiments regarding the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi?
A.Y. -International organizations failed to prevent two genocides during the 1990’s, one in Rwanda and one in Bosnia. And Türkiye in all this has remained in solidarity with those who suffered. Today I will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and we will provide a symbolic contribution to the Memorial. As we firmly believe that the stories and experiences of Rwandans must always be remembered, we may increase our contribution in the future.
Türkiye is in solidarity with the Rwandan Government and Rwandan people. The international community should make sure that genocides will not be repeated in any part of the world.
RNA: How do Rwandans benefit from the partnership between the two countries? Can you give some concrete examples?
A.Y. – Our relations are moving in a constructive and inspiring way. One example is more than 300 Rwandans currently studying in Turkish universities, some with scholarships granted by the Turkish Government. Turkish companies are also involved in the development of Rwanda. Our construction companies which undertook and completed a number of projects together with Rwandan partners bring high quality and contribute to prosperity through employment and trade. I have visited many African countries. Turkish Airlines is a key factor in providing visibility and connectivity for these countries. Turkish Airlines is in good partnership with Rwandair.
Furthermore, Turkish institutions also provide technical training to Rwandan experts. Defence Authorities of our countries cooperate in various areas. Türkiye conducts similar programs with other countries with which we enjoy partnership. The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) and some civil society organizations also contribute to the interaction between Türkiye and Rwanda. Cultural activities conducted by Yunus Emre Institute not only promote Turkish culture and language in Rwanda, but also add to the visibility of Rwanda in Türkiye and international arena. Türkiye appreciates the Rwandan Government’s efforts in promoting women and also contributes to some projects implemented in this respect. Our trade volume continues to grow. Both Embassies in our capitals are working in this direction. In certain sectors there is complementarity between Turkish and Rwandan economies. I am confident that both countries will continue to benefit from our commercial relations. I believe that there is more room for extending and expanding the trade volume. Attention towards Rwanda is increasing in Türkiye. Visits from both countries to each other also contribute to this trend.
RNA: Do you have a special message to Rwandans with regard to Kwibuka30 ?
A.Y.-We share the pain of the people of Rwanda. We pay tribute to all victims and all those who suffered. Rwandans proved their strength and courage in a very visible manner, despite the great sufferings. Their resilience is our consolation. Türkiye is in sincere partnership with Rwanda and committed to further develop our relations. (End)