France’s biggest celebration, the storming of the Bastille, was celebrated on July 14 in a very modest way, unlike in previous years in Rwanda as in France.
In France, the military parade on land and in the air did not take place. In Kigali, the French Embassy did not close its doors. Work continued as usual. “This is a special celebration because of the covid-19 pandemic,” said chargé d’affaires, Jérémie Blin.
“The first thought is for those who have been directly or indirectly affected by the disease,” he said in an audio-visual message. Next, Mr. Blin expressed a message of solidarity. “In the face of the crisis, our country has remained united and in solidarity,” he said. “Internationally, it has demonstrated its commitment, particularly in Africa, with the Joint Health Facility with 1.2 billion euros to support plans to respond to the crisis,” he added.
As part of this solidarity, the Rwandan Government signed a credit and grant agreement worth about 45.8 million euros to finance the covid-19 response plan. This fund will also be used to support the people most affected by the economic consequences of this pandemic, as well as vocational training.
The French Head of State, Emmanuel Macron, for his part, paid tribute to all those who have played a role in sustaining life. “We will pay a deserved tribute to all those, professionals, volunteers, who have mobilized in all sectors on the front line despite the danger, on the second and third line behind to enable public, social and economic life to continue; to enable our nation to hold on,” said Emmanuel Macron.
President Macron and President Kagame agreed to revitalize bilateral relations. The Embassy has been strengthened, the French Development Agency (AFD) has re-engaged in Rwanda, the dialogue between the two countries has been strengthened, the cultural project of the Francophone Centre is progressing well. It should open in early 2021.
Gérard Rugambwa
