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Rwanda to relocate Burundian refugees

Xinhua, February 12, 2016 Adjust font size:

The government of Rwanda Thursday night announced plans to work with partners in the international community on an orderly and safe relocation of Burundian refugees to third countries.

In a statement, Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo pointed out that while Rwanda readily shoulders its obligations to protect and care for refugees -- experience in the Great Lakes region is that the long-term presence of refugees so close to their country of origin carries considerable risks for all involved.

"The callous indifference to the well-known root causes of instability in Burundi, and the refugee exodus is troubling. It also exposes refugees to increased threats from forces at home and compromises lasting political solutions. For Rwanda, the growing risks to our national security from the Burundian impasse and misunderstandings in our foreign relations are unacceptable," the minister said.

On Tuesday, Mushikiwabo said in parliament that Rwanda would not forcefully repatriate Burundian refugees.

But Thursday's announcement comes days after the U.S. raised concerns with Rwandan officials over allegations suggesting it is involved in "destabilizing activities" in Burundi.

The Kigali government denies the allegations.

Thursday's statement said in recent months, Rwanda has made requests to international partners and organizations to host Burundians living in camps and in towns in Rwanda.

It said no party has come forward yet, even as the political situation in the refugees' country of origin shows no improvement.

Minister Mushikiwabo said for Rwanda and the region, the costs of repeating past mistakes of political mismanagement and international politicking, at Rwanda's expense, are too high.

Rwanda hosts about 75,000 refugees from Burundi. Endit