It's a moment to celebrate our profound and multi-faceted friendship.
This friendship thrives on vigorous economic, trade, and investment cooperation. The zero-tariff policy for Africa is poised to further boost the export of Rwanda's high-quality agricultural products to China.
It shines through landmark projects such as the new Masaka Hospital, the Nyabarongo Hydro-power Plant and Smart Education. It is strengthened through exchanges between our ruling parties and cemented by our steadfast mutual support on issues of core interest.
Our medical team, serving in Rwanda for 44 years, stands as a powerful testament to the deep bonds between our peoples. Braving all challenges, these angels in white spare no effort to heal the wounded and rescue the dying. We will never forget one of them, Mr. Saiyin Hexige, who gave his life to this land. We will also remember Mr. Li Junsheng, who has served in Rwanda for 11 years. This year, more doctors and nurses have arrived, elevating China-Rwanda health cooperation to new heights.
As H.E. President Paul Kagame said, 'Our firm intention is to deepen our relationship even further in the next half-century of cooperation'. These words resonate deeply as we celebrate the 55th anniversary of our diplomatic ties.
The Spring Festival is a cherished time for Chinese families to come together, reflect on the past, and welcome the future. We are therefore truly honored to share this special occasion with our Rwandan brothers and sisters.
Both China and Rwanda belong to the Global South. Shared historical experiences have made us like-minded partners in the pursuit of self-determination, freedom, and equality.
Rwanda's Liberation Trail and China's Long March reveal common spiritual qualities in our peoples: a sense of mission, courage, and unity. These parallel journeysâ€"rising from the ashesâ€"inspire us to strive for success and dignity. Our shared pursuit of modernization enables us to learn from, share with, and support one another.
The new year presents an opportunity for cultural exchange. Both the Spring Festival and Intore are inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Though separated by vast distance, our civilizations recognize, appreciate, and enrich each other.
We regularly exchange ideas and experiences on governance, exploring ways to realize our people-centered development goals. Together, we work to preserve the cultural heritage that defines us as Chinese and Rwandans.
This year marks the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchange. In his congratulatory letter for the launch ceremony, H.E. President Xi Jinping stated, ' The two great civilizations of China and Africa have been enriching each other for thousands of years, serving as the historical and intellectual source of China-Africa friendship'. It is our shared mission to enhance mutual understanding, strengthen people-to-people ties, and lay a solid foundation for the friendship between China and Rwanda.
This friendship would not be possible without the strong support of Chinese compatriots in Rwanda. They remain committed to the reunification of the motherland and resolutely uphold the one-China principle. By actively integrating into Rwandan society, complying with local laws and regulations, and contributing significantly to bilateral relations, they help bring our two countries closer. Guided by the principle of 'diplomacy for the people', the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda will spare no effort to provide them with the finest possible service.
In the year of the Horse, I wish China-Rwanda relations surge forward with the vitality of the horse, leading the way in friendship and cooperation. I wish Chinese and Rwandan people filled with energy and achieve every success in our endeavors.
Gao Wenqi
Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/china-rwanda-ties-new-year-new-momentum-new-hope
