The United States and the Republic of Rwanda enjoy a partnership that began in 1962 just after the Rwandan independence. This Rwanda-American partnership is deeply rooted in the shared ideals of our two countries. The U.S. Embassy in Kigali works together with the Republic of Rwanda to strengthen our partnership by advancing the key goals of regional stability, economic prosperity, and democratic transition within the Republic of Rwanda and in the Great Lakes region. Through its diplomatic and public activities, the U.S. Embassy seeks to ensure regional stability through our shared commitment to security organizations like UN Agencies, Great Lakes and East African security organizations. We support economic activity by encouraging U.S. commercial ties with and promoting U.S. investment in the Republic of Rwanda. We actively support the transition to a vibrant democracy that encourages civic participation, legal reform, and respect for human rights. Our third goal is to promote health with special emphasis on combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. Our historic partnership is alive and thriving today in the U.S. Embassy's engagement in the Republic of Rwanda.