China pledges more support

KIGALI - Rwanda is among African countries that will continue to get support from the Chinese government. This was confirmed by Shu Zhan, the Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda during a one-day meeting aimed at assessing the role of China on the African continent. Speaking to The New Times, the envoy commended the cordial relationship between the two governments, adding that China is ready to expand support to the Rwandan government. “China and Rwanda have enjoyed a good relationship for almost 40 years and we have been working together effectively. China is ready to continue supporting Rwanda,” Zhan said. Asked areas where his country would put priorities, the Ambassador noted that it will depend on interests of the Rwandan government to choose the sectors that still need Chinese assistance. “The government and all Rwandans are very cooperative. We offer support in various sectors like agriculture, health, education, infrastructure and others; therefore for the continued support, the government has to decide the priority sector for our support.” It is estimated that from January –November 2010, China-Africa trade volume reached $114.81 billion dollars. Dr Jean de la Croix Nkurayija, the Dean in Faculty of Arts, Media and Social Sciences at National University of Rwanda, applauded China’s commitment towards Africa, especially Rwanda, adding that they have continued to provide tangible support to the country. “In all partnership, what is important is to know how much we all benefit from the mutual cooperation. When you work with the Chinese, you expect tangible results like infrastructure”. Apparently there more that 20 Chinese companies in Rwanda involved in field of construction, ICT, service industry, mining and resources development. The meeting was organised by the South African Institute of international Affairs (SAIIA) in collaboration with National University of Rwanda. Ends