NEW YORK – World Jewish Congress CEO and Executive Vice President Robert Singer has congratulated the Republic of Rwanda for opening the first Israeli embassy in its capital city of Kigali.
In a letter to Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Richard Sezibera, Singer wrote: “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate you and the Rwandan Government on the occasion of the opening of the Israeli Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda. This action will no doubt lead to an expansion in bilateral cooperation between Rwanda and Israel, especially in the areas of science and technology, innovation and agriculture. I also welcome the announcement that RwandAir intends to commence direct flights from Rwanda to Israel.
“These achievements reflect the warm and enduring diplomatic relationship that exists between two great nations, which despite their small area, are united in making significant contributions to the global arena. These accomplishments were especially evident during the most recent session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, when Rwanda abstained on four of the five anti-Israel resolutions considered.
“I am pleased of the close relationship forged between the WJC and the Permanent Mission of Rwanda to the UN in New York. The WJC recently co-hosted an event with the Permanent Mission of Rwanda on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Genocide Convention. The event aimed to discuss the contribution of Jewish lawyer Raphael Lemkin to the drafting of the Convention and the current challenges faced by the international justice system in preventing genocides and ensuring justice for victims. This event symbolized the unshakable bond between two peoples which have tragically suffered from the crime of genocide and are committed to combatting discrimination in all its forms.
“I thank you and the Rwandan government for your friendship to Israel and the Jewish people and look forward to continuing to work together.”
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