Burundi

"It is important to respect the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Burundi and to continue to negotiate with the Burundian government."

"Peace talks are urgently needed on Burundi. Until they come, the volcano will continue to swirl, with regular eruptions, such as last week, in the worst case increasingly fierce. Until the ultimate eruption becomes inevitable."

"Not surprisingly, relations between Burundi and Rwanda have soured in the meantime, while Rwanda openly presents itself as "the protector of the Burundian people against their murderous president" and regularly suggests that it might intervene with its neighbours."

"The key to defusing the Burundian time bomb therefore lies both in Bujumbura and in Kigali. And a little bit in Brussels, where some key figures of the opposition to Petero Nkurunziza and his party have withdrawn. Our country could also play a role in this, by mediating and building bridges. After all, the confidence in 'the Belgians' still remains with many Burundian top figures, despite some harsh words in recent months."

"I am always smiling when I wear this national flag of Burundi. I did all I was supposed to do to defend this title despite the fact it was not easy. I did it for god and for my country. I want to be an inspiration for the youth and children in Burundi"

"They treat us as if we are cheats. We deserve to be respected as athletes, as champions."

"It doesn’t make sense. For sure, I didn’t choose to be born like this. I love running, and I will not stop running"

"I am feeling seriously wonderful. I didn’t realize I could run a world record, but it was my first time here. I came here to do what I have to do"

"I did it. It’s wonderful and it’s fabulous. The pacing was really perfect. I want to thank all the people who came to cheer us"

"I will firstly endeavor to train myself to improve my record and do better in 2020 Olympic Games"

"I started being ranked seventh on the list in 2012 Olympic Games, the second in 2016 and though I don’t know what the result will be, I want to be a gold medalist in 2020"

"Determination and courage are the best friends of the future"

"I will take this opportunity to visit the University of Ngozi as it promised to award me for my silver medal"

"There isn’t much money in athletics. We just win and receive something that allows us to survive with the main objective of avoiding depending on others. On the contrary, it is the country which should honor its athletes"

"Burundi government should adopt laws that promote athletes in Burundi for instance"

"addressing human rights challenges is inseparable from social and economic development programs. Under her leadership, initiatives aimed at reducing inequality and promoting inclusivity have made notable progress despite ongoing challenges"

"Recent policies targeting school completion rates and offering boarding options for marginalised communities have both troubled youth, and increased opportunities for social development"

"the opportunity to assure that everybody can become masters of their own destiny"

"new healthcare policies offer free medical services for pregnant women and children under the age of five, with additional funding set aside for individuals who are unable to afford treatment"

"There is a double function to our country. Help others whilst preventing war to come on our soil"

"We would like Australia to be a better friend, to increase the level of relationship and engagement and accompany Burundi as we strive to improve our economic, social and political stability"