The discussions underscored the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, building on the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

During the meeting, Wang Yi emphasized the elevation of China-Rwanda relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, a milestone achieved during last year’s FOCAC Summit when Presidents Xi Jinping and Paul Kagame issued a joint statement to advance the three global initiatives proposed by China: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative.

These initiatives provide a robust framework for advancing bilateral ties and aligning development goals. Wang stressed that both nations are committed to supporting each other, implementing the FOCAC outcomes, and upholding the Changsha Declaration to safeguard the interests of developing countries and promote international fairness and justice.

A key focus of the discussions was the shared vision for modernization. Wang Yi articulated that modernization does not equate to Westernization, advocating for a model that aligns with each country’s unique national conditions.

China expressed its willingness to engage in mutual learning with Rwanda on governance experiences, aiming to foster self-reliant and sustainable development paths that enhance the well-being of their people and contribute to global progress. This approach resonates with Rwanda’s Vision 2050, a national plan to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy by 2035 and a high-income economy by 2050.

Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s support for Rwanda’s development ambitions, pledging to deepen practical cooperation across various sectors, including infrastructure, health, and education, while fostering exchanges between governments, political parties, legislatures, and local communities. This commitment builds on over five decades of friendship, during which China has contributed significantly to Rwanda’s development, particularly in areas such as road construction, electricity, and healthcare.

Minister Nduhungirehe echoed these sentiments, noting the positive outcomes of the long-standing partnership. He highlighted the tangible benefits of the elevated bilateral relationship following the 2024 FOCAC Summit, particularly for the Rwandan people.

Nduhungirehe reaffirmed Rwanda’s steadfast commitment to the one-China principle and expressed enthusiasm for implementing the ten partnership actions outlined at the Summit, which aim to drive modernization through independent and self-reliant means. Rwanda also voiced strong support for China’s three global initiatives, recognizing their potential to foster a peaceful and prosperous world.

The meeting also addressed regional peace and security, with a focus on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Nduhungirehe commended China’s active role in promoting dialogue and political solutions to the conflict in the region. Wang Yi reiterated China’s commitment to playing a constructive role in fostering peace in eastern DRC, emphasizing diplomacy and collaboration.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1971, Rwanda and China have forged a strong relationship grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision for development. In recent years, this bond has grown through increased partnerships and political understanding.

During his stay in China Nduhungrehe attended the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Changsha, where he commended the broader China–Africa cooperation framework and its impact across multiple sectors.

He also met with members of the Rwandan Community in Changsha and surrounding cities and presided over the Rwanda-China Investment Promotion forum.

China has expressed its readiness to deepen exchanges and mutual learning with Rwanda, as highlighted during a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe in Changsha on June 12, 2025.