On July 10, 2025, I arrived in Fujian after transiting through Shanghai, traveling on my ordinary passport rather than a diplomatic one. This allowed me to experience how an ordinary citizen is treated at Chinese immigration. I was met with courtesy and efficiency; the officers greeted me with professionalism, and I did not notice any difference in treatment based on my passport status. These early interactions left a strong impression on me. My primary purpose in China was to attend a seminar on the Belt and Road Initiative. I am a Rwandan diplomat currently on a sabbatical year. Several aspects of China deeply impressed me: I. Leadership, harmony, and national philosophy Throughout my visit, I grew increasingly appreciative of China’s leadership legacy of Chairman Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping, and President Xi Jinping. Each generation of leaders, has contributed, in their respective era, to the country’s emphasis on peaceful development, social harmony, and environmental stewardship. Under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, China has accelerated the green infrastructure development, expanded ecological protection zones, and consistently pursued a people-centered development strategy. One can sense a clear continuity of vision: Chairman Mao laid the ideological foundation; Deng introduced pragmatic market reforms while preserving the revolutionary spirit; and President Xi has advanced the vision of “common prosperity,” prioritizing environmental quality, national unity, and international cooperation. II. Tour highlights: Hangzhou and Ningbo Our journey took us from Fuzhou to Hangzhou by train. We visited the scenic West Lake Park—a shining example of how environmental respect, tourism, and technological innovation can coexist in harmony. We then spent three days in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province—a dynamic port city where modern trade infrastructure seamlessly integrates with rich cultural heritage. III. The tea tradition and Tang Dynasty heritage In China, tea is more than just a beverage—it is a cultural tradition embodying harmony, mindfulness, and community. In Fuzhou, I participated in traditional tea ceremonies where the host patiently guided us through the ritual, explaining the importance of water temperature, leaf quality, and the spirit of shared service. While I have always been a coffee enthusiast, this experience has drawn me into the world of tea. IV. China’s poverty reduction record and Africa’s aspirations China’s economic transformation—from the time of Chairman Mao, through Deng’s reforms, and into the era of President Xi—has lifted nearly 800 million people out of extreme poverty over four decades. This achievement accounts for more than 70% of global poverty reduction during that period. By 2020, China had officially eradicated absolute poverty—a remarkable feat that serves as a powerful inspiration to developing nations, particularly in Africa. V. Toward an African-Chinese partnership: AIIB Over WB and IMF My government is increasingly aligning its future economic cooperation with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) rather than relying solely on the World Bank or IMF. Established in Beijing in 2016 with a subscribed capital of US $100 billion and 110 member countries, the AIIB focuses on infrastructure projects with high sustainability standards. It has emerged as a credible multilateral institution. My experience in China convinced me that its development model offers not only capital but also practical solutions—without the structural conditions often imposed by traditional Western financial institutions. VI. The One-China policy and national unity Fuzhou’s proximity to Taiwan—and, further south, to Hong Kong—deepened my understanding of the One-China policy, which emphasizes national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and cultural identity. I observed how this principle shapes both China’s domestic governance and its bilateral relations, providing a foundation of mutual respect and long-term stability. VII. Final reflections and gratitude My visit concluded on August 1, 2025, leaving me with vivid memories of cities, landscapes, and conversations—but above all, a deep respect for a civilizational path that blends ancient collectivism with modern infrastructure and global leadership. Although English is not widely spoken, I found the Chinese people to be exceptionally hospitable. They often used mobile translation apps to communicate and went out of their way to assist us—always with kindness and a smile. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda and to the International Economic Cooperation Center of Fujian Province. On my return journey, I once again passed through Shanghai Immigration, where I was treated with the same respect and professionalism I had experienced upon arrival. The author is a Rwandan career diplomat who has spent the majority of his career serving in a number of diplomatic capacities.
