Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Rao Hongwei (L) and Rwandan Minister of State in Charge of Economic Planning Uzziel Ndagijimana propose a toast at a reception to celebrate the 68th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, in Kigali, capital of Rwanda, on Sept. 27, 2017. (Xinhua/Gabriel Dusabe)
KIGALI, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda holds China in high regard for its contribution to Rwanda's socio-economic development and close bilateral cooperation based on mutual trust and partnership, said Rwandan minister of state in charge of economic planning on Wednesday.
China has remained a valuable partner for Rwanda over the past four decades in several sectors, especially infrastructure, Uzziel Ndagijimana told a reception here celebrating the 68th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, which falls on Sunday.
Trade relations between the two countries have also shown significant progress, said Ndagijimana.
"As Rwanda continues to work towards building the manufacturing sector, we look forward to welcoming more Chinese companies to invest in that area," said Ndagijimana, adding that Rwanda is also looking forward to promoting people-to-people relations with China.
Since Rwandan President Paul Kagame's successful visit to China in March, the China-Rwanda relations have embarked on a fast track, said Rao Hongwei, Chinese ambassador to Rwanda.
The governments and people of the two countries will further strengthen cooperation to achieve win-win results and inclusive progress, said the ambassador.
About 350 people attended the reception which was held at the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda.
