For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
August 27, 2003

Statement on Rwandan Presidential Elections
Statement by the Deputy Press Secretary

The Rwandan people have taken an important step forward in the political transition and reconciliation of their nation by holding their first Presidential elections since the 1994 genocide. We congratulate President Paul Kagame on his victory, and look forward to building our relationship with the people of Rwanda, who have demonstrated their commitment to democracy by peacefully turning out in large numbers.

The United States will work cooperatively with the Government of Rwanda, all political parties, and civil society to ensure that Rwanda's political transition occurs peacefully, freely, and fairly.

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