Kigali — The United States Embassy in Kigali on Friday, June 30, held celebrations to mark its Independence Day, with Ambassador Michael Arietti pledging increased financial support to Rwanda and the end of genocide in Sudan's troubled Darfur region.

Talking to over 100 dignitaries, Ambassador Arietti noted that the US and Rwanda have something in common to share and added that his country is today the largest bilateral donor to Rwanda. "July 4 is not only the US Independence Day but it is also Rwanda's Liberation Day, so our countries have much to celebrate this week and in particular, over the past year we have witnessed many important milestones in our bilateral relationship," Ambassador Arietti told the guests that included, among others, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Charles Murigande and the Minister of Commerce, Industry, Investment Promotion and Cooperatives, Protais Mitali.

He pledged more financial support to boost Rwanda's economic growth and image by investing more in the coffee, health and trade sectors. He further pointed out that the US is working closely with the government to strengthen democracy, uphold the rule of law and respect for human rights.

The envoy also pledged his country's support to Rwanda's humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts in the troubled region of Darfur in western Sudan.

"The US government has helped Rwandan efforts by providing airlift support to Rwandan troops to Darfur.

"We are committed to expanding our military co-operation in order to enhance the peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance capabilities of the Rwandan military to avert genocide in that region," Arietti asserted.

Arietti also expressed appreciation at the government's determination to foster national unity and reconciliation after the 1994 genocide.

Chief guest Dr. Charles Murigande noted that the two countries share a lot in terms of fighting for the ideals of liberty and democracy.

"US is a nation born out of conviction that all men are created equal and their freedom and rights are not gifts from the governments but a must and responsibility of any democratic government to provide it to its people. The Rwandan government has the same conviction and that we must live in peace and harmony irrespective of our minor differences," Murigande asserted and observed that the American democracy is a heritage of hope and liberty around the world.

He expressed appreciation for the US' growing financial support to various strategic development sectors like agriculture, health and governance since 1994.

"The recent visit of our President to the US and his successful discussions with President Bush is an added value to the ever-growing bilateral relations. Please convey our best wishes to the people of United States as they celebrate their 230 Independence Day and Liberation," Murigande said.

The highlight of the celebrations was the presentation of American Colours by US Army officials and characterised by the exchange of pleasantries from various guests.