Colombo, 14 November 2013
This evening, President Kagame arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka where he will be attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting for the second time since Rwanda joined the organization in 2011. President Kagame will join over 50 heads of governments for the meeting themed Growth with Equity: Inclusive Development.
During the two days meeting, heads of government meeting will discuss issues including economic development, human rights, post 2015 development agenda and climate change financing. The heads of government will also take part in an interactive discussion with selected youth attending the meeting.
Earlier today, Minister Gatete speaking on behalf of President Kagame addressed the Commonwealth Business Forum during a discussion titled “Reshaping Africa and Asia Partnerships for Sustainable Growth.”
Speaking to the delegates present, Minister Gatete described Africa’s growth as unprecedented and as a clear sign of transformation:
“A new narrative is emerging about Africa, it is a story of hope. Africa continues to defy the pessimists, Economic output is strong and a digital revolution is entrenching democracy and powering communication, business and service delivery. Africa’s real GDP rose by 5.4 percent per year over the last decade and doubled from $600 billion to $2.2 trillion”
Minister Gatete ended his discussion with a call for increased partnerships in the field of infrastructure development, transfer of skills and increased trade.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is held every two years to enable leaders of Commonwealth countries to come together to discuss global and Commonwealth issues, and to decide on collective policies and initiatives.
This year, CHOGM is taking place in Sri Lanka, the first time an Asian country is hosting the summit in 24 years.
Rwanda joined the Commonwealth in 2009 becoming the 54th nation to join the association.