China is committed to working with Rwanda to strengthen defence cooperation and jointly address regional security challenges, Capt (Navy) Li Dayi, the Chinese Defence Attaché accredited to Rwanda, has said.
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He made the remarks on July 11 during a ceremony in Kigali marking the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The event brought together government officials, diplomats, and members of the Chinese community in Rwanda.
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Li noted that China and Rwanda enjoy a profound brotherly friendship that transcends mountains and seas.
"In September 2024, during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, our leaders announced the elevation of our bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Today, our ties are at their best in history.”
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He stressed that the PLA and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) have built mutual trust through high-level exchanges, personnel training, and military cooperation.
"China upholds the principle of solidarity and goodwill in its relations with African nations. We are committed to working with Rwanda to deepen defence cooperation and jointly address regional security challenges,” he said.
Maj Gen Alex Kagame, the Chief of Staff of Rwanda Reserve Force, emphasised that the history of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army stands as a testament to courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to safeguarding sovereignty and national dignity.
"These are values that we in Rwanda deeply respect and share. Rwanda’s own history has been shaped by liberation struggles and the sacrifices made to secure our freedom. That is why RDF remains fully committed to preserving peace and stability in the region and beyond.”
"We are also grateful for the role the PLA has played in supporting the professionalisation and capacity-building of RDF, particularly through training programs and sharing of expertise.
Kagame noted that over the past 10 years, more than 300 Rwandan military personnel graduated from Chinese military institutions. In addition, 25 RDF members received scholarships to study in China in specialised fields including strategic studies, engineering, military science, and air defence.
"The upcoming signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation will further strengthen our military activities,” he added.
In August 2024, President Paul Kagame met with Lt Gen Huang Xucong, the Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Central Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, to discuss ways to strengthen military cooperation between Rwanda and China.