Rwanda's government has reiterated remarks that France played a "direct role" in the genocide 20 years ago that resulted in the deaths of nearly 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus at the hands of ethnic Hutu militias.
At an international forum on genocide Sunday in Kigali, before Monday's 20th anniversary ceremonies, Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo said France has "wronged" Rwanda by being partially responsible for the genocide. She said relations between France and Rwanda cannot be repaired if Rwanda has to accept the French version of events.
She echoed Rwandan President Paul Kagame's remarks that France and Belgium played what he called a "direct role" in the political preparation for the genocide. The president's remarks led France to cancel plans to attend the ceremonies this week.
France has denied any responsibility for the genocide and says the accusations go against the reconciliation process between the two countries.
At an international forum on genocide Sunday in Kigali, before Monday's 20th anniversary ceremonies, Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo said France has "wronged" Rwanda by being partially responsible for the genocide. She said relations between France and Rwanda cannot be repaired if Rwanda has to accept the French version of events.
She echoed Rwandan President Paul Kagame's remarks that France and Belgium played what he called a "direct role" in the political preparation for the genocide. The president's remarks led France to cancel plans to attend the ceremonies this week.
France has denied any responsibility for the genocide and says the accusations go against the reconciliation process between the two countries.