MADRID, June 14 (EUROPA PRESS) –

The Rwandan government this Tuesday maintained a deal with Britain to accept asylum seekers and has stated that flights scheduled for Tuesday may be the first of many, as the African nation is willing to take in “thousands” of people.

Rwanda’s executive spokeswoman, Yolande Makolo, has explained to the press that her government is offering migrants arriving on British territory after crossing the English Channel a “new life”. As such, he explained that they would be provided with all kinds of support, including accommodation, and even if Rwanda refused their official asylum request, they would be able to apply for legal residency.

Makolo also pointed out that the Rwandan authorities are willing to support the return of these migrants to their home country or to a third country. “We hope they choose to stay with us,” he said, arguing that it was necessary not to fall into stereotypes when talking about Africa.

“We don’t think that staying in Rwanda is a punishment,” he said when asked by the media about the deal which was preceded by all kinds of criticism. Human rights organizations have accused the UK of shifting its asylum responsibilities.

Makolo, however, does not consider it immoral to “offer a house” to these people and, although he has stated that there are “no specific figures” about a commitment with England, he has explained Rwanda’s good disposition. “We are ready to accept thousands,” he said.

Like the UK, Denmark has also reportedly asked Rwanda for the possibility of a similar deal, but a government spokesman has indicated the talks are “not” finalized.