Rwanda and China are deepening their cooperation across governance, defence, and development, following high-level meetings in Kigali this week.
On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Rwanda’s Senate hosted China’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Gao Wenqi. Senate President Dr. François Kalinda welcomed the ambassador alongside Vice President in charge of Legislation and Justice, Soline Nyirahabimana, and Vice President responsible for Economic Affairs and Social Welfare, Alvera Mukabaramba.
The discussions focused on strengthening parliamentary collaboration, exploring new initiatives to foster bilateral ties, and promoting shared interests between the two countries. Officials emphasized the importance of continuing to build a partnership based on mutual benefit and long-term cooperation.
The meetings come shortly after Rwanda and China signed a defence cooperation agreement, “Agreement on Defence Cooperation,” on September 17, 2025, in Beijing. The accord was signed by Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and China’s Minister of Defence, Admiral Dong Jun, during the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, an international gathering of countries to discuss peace, security, and military collaboration.
Rwanda and China have maintained diplomatic relations since 1971, collaborating across sectors including education, agriculture, trade, technology, and infrastructure. China is one of Rwanda’s key development partners, supporting major projects such as road construction and other public works.
In the defence sector, the two countries work closely on military training, security management, and international peacekeeping initiatives. The recent meetings and agreements underscore a commitment to strengthen the strategic partnership and ensure continued collaboration in governance, defence, and development.
