Rwanda, China reaffirm commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation

KIGALI, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation as the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda marked the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The anniversary reception, held Tuesday evening in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, brought together representatives from the Rwandan government, diplomatic missions, academia, media and the Chinese community.

Speaking at the event, Usta Kaitesi, minister of state for foreign affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, congratulated China on its anniversary and commended its achievements in economic and social development, science and technology, and infrastructure.

She said Rwanda-China relations have expanded significantly since diplomatic ties were established in 1971, covering infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, energy, trade, investment and capacity building. She noted that the elevation of the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024 marked an important milestone.

"Our work together brings positive and meaningful change in the lives of Rwandans," she said.

Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Gao Wenqi said China-Rwanda friendship has grown from strong to stronger since 1971, particularly following the elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024.

"China-Rwanda relations are a choice, not a coincidence," Gao said, noting that the two countries share similar visions and enjoy solid mutual trust.

Gao said bilateral trade volume reached a record 849 million U.S. dollars in 2025, while Rwanda's exports to China rose to 227 million dollars, representing a 42 percent year-on-year increase. He added that Chinese investment was expanding into sectors including manufacturing, cement, agriculture, food processing and vehicle assembly.

He also highlighted cooperation in education and skills development, noting that about 150 Rwandan students had traveled to China on degree scholarships this year, while more than 300 Rwandan experts participated in specialized training programs.

A photo exhibition on the theme of China-Rwanda friendship and China's development achievements was also held during the reception.

The photographs showcased the results of China-Rwanda cooperation in infrastructure, trade and investment, healthcare and people-to-people exchanges, while also highlighting China's achievements in science and technology, agriculture, infrastructure, economic development and ecological conservation.