Rwanda, China discuss ways of strengthening military cooperation #rwanda #RwOT

The discussions took place when Rwanda's Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and the Chief of Defence Staff of the RDF, Gen MK Mubarakh, hosted Lt. Gen. Huang Xucong, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Central Theater Command of the PLA, along with his delegation. The Chinese delegation is on a four-day official visit to Rwanda.

As part of their visit, the delegation paid respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi at Kigali Genocide Memorial on Wednesday and visited the Campaign Against Genocide Museum.

On Thursday morning, the PLA delegation toured the Combat Training Centre in Gabiro, Eastern Province, and they are scheduled to visit the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako on Friday.

This visit comes after the recent celebration of the 97th anniversary of the founding of China's People's Liberation Army in Kigali. The event, held at the Kigali Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, including ambassadors, envoys, Defence Attachés from various countries, and representatives from RDF.

Military cooperation between Rwanda and China remains a cornerstone of their bilateral relations. Both nations are committed to maintaining peace and play significant roles in international peacekeeping operations.

During the celebration, China's Defence Attaché to Rwanda, Senior Captain (Navy) Li Dayi, emphasized the shared interests between the PLA and RDF, noting that both forces learn from each other's experiences in military development. He reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening this cooperation.

Major General Ngiruwonsanga, Commandant of the RDF General Headquarters, who represented General Mubarakh Muganga, the Chief of Defence Staff, at the celebrations, highlighted the shared values and historical struggles for liberation between Rwanda and China.

He praised the PLA's legacy of fighting for justice and protecting individual rights, describing it as an inspiration.

"The legacy of the PLA is not merely a reflection of past achievements but a guiding light for the future. Our collective efforts, grounded in mutual respect and understanding, will continue to advance the shared goals of peace, security, and prosperity," he stated.

The longstanding relations between Rwanda and China span 75 years, marked by substantial cooperation and mutual respect.

The discussions took place on Thursday, August 8, 2024, as Rwanda's Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and the Chief of Defence Staff of the RDF, Gen MK Mubarakh, hosted Lt Gen Huang Xucong, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Central Theater Command of the PLA, along with his delegation.