Honourable Ministers;

Excellencies, High Commissioners and Members of the Diplomatic Corps;

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good evening, and welcome.

On behalf of the Government of Rwanda, I want to thank you for marking Commonwealth Day together with us.

We are pleased to join millions of people around the world to celebrate the Commonwealth’s 71st anniversary.

In doing so, we acknowledge our organisation’s aspiration to uphold shared values of democracy, multilateralism, and sustainable development.

This year, Commonwealth Day has a special significance for Rwanda. As the newest member country, we will host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in June.

Around the world, we are witnessing a lack of confidence in leadership, in some contexts. How can we make governance even more inclusive and accountable?

Technology gives us access to information, knowledge, and services which increases opportunity. But how do we ensure equal access for all?

Youth represent 60 per cent of the Commonwealth. How do we create an environment that enables young people to thrive?

Climate change is a global crisis that particularly affects Commonwealth countries, notably small and island states. How do we adapt and build resilience?

In 2019, trade within the Commonwealth was at 56 billion dollars, with a potential to grow up to $2 trillion by 2030. How do we reach this ambitious target?

These important questions will be tackled by Commonwealth leaders at the upcoming CHOGM, which is a unique platform to match our ambitions to the resources and collaborative efforts needed to reach them. The meeting gives us the chance to learn and exchange best practices as we move forward together.

In less than four months, the Commonwealth family will gather in Kigali. Rwanda is ready to host you. And later tonight, at midnight to be precise, all citizen from Commonwealth countries will no longer have to pay for a visa when visiting Rwanda.

We recently concluded the advance visits, where we received over 100 delegates from dozens of member countries. I wish to thank you all for the support shown so far. We also appreciate your constructive feedback which helps us to fine tune all aspects of our preparations.

I am also pleased to note that the programmes for the four important Commonwealth Forums were released today.

The Government and the people of Rwanda are committed to make the delegates’ experience enjoyable and unforgettable.

On that note, may I wish you all a happy Commonwealth Day, and a delightful evening.

END.