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Dutch politicians have hit out at Arsenal's new 'Visit Rwanda' sleeve sponsors for next season's shirts, calling the deal "disheartening".

The tourist board's logo will feature on the Gunners' official jerseys from next season and will run until the end of 2020/21.

Arsenal unveiled their new home kit on Tuesday in what could be their last year with Puma, with the current £30million-a-year deal expiring at the end of the season.

The tourist board reportedly paid a similar figure to ensure their logo would feature prominently on Arsenal's shirts; and it is precisely this that has irked some Dutch politicians.

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Rwanda currently receives aid from Holland - although this does not go to the government of Rwanda - and political figures from the country are angry that the tourist board has parted with such a large amount of cash.

Speaking to Dutch news outlet VI, politician Joel Voordewind said: "I am indignant that a country where we provide solid financial assistance has now become a whopping €30million shirt sponsor of a major English football club."

While Isabelle Diks of political party GroenLinks added: "Of course our development aid does not go to the government of Rwanda and it is good that Rwanda tries to give the economy a boost.

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"But it is disheartening that this kind of spending is being made, while the international community is trying to do something about the terrible poverty in the country."

On the other side of the fence, Rwanda Development Board CEO Clare Akamanzi has defended the partnership, and pointed out that the deal will benefit tourism.

She said: "The launch of Visit Rwanda is a major new opportunity for us to showcase the best of Rwanda for tourists and investors alike.

(Image: Arsenal FC)

"There have been huge, positive strides in Rwanda in recent years and we will be focusing our global campaigns on ensuring everyone is aware of the beauty of the country, the warmth of our people, the modernity of our infrastructure and the many possibilities to invest and grow here."

She added: "We're thrilled to be partnering with Arsenal and showcasing the vibrancy and beauty of our country.

"Renowned for our incredible and unique mountain gorilla tracking experience, tourists can also enjoy a variety of water sports, cycling, hiking, bird watching to list a few of the attractions available while in Rwanda."

(Image: Arsenal FC)

Arsenal chief commercial officer Vinai Venkatesham echoed this sentiment, saying: "This is an exciting partnership which will see us support Rwanda's ambition to build their tourism industry.

"The country has been transformed in recent years and Arsenal's huge following will bring Rwanda into people's minds in a new and dynamic way.

(Image: Arsenal FC)

"The Arsenal shirt is seen 35 million times a day globally and we are one of the most viewed teams around the world.

"We look forward to working with the 'Visit Rwanda' team to further establish the country as a leading tourist destination."