Chinese Community in Rwanda welcomes Chinese New Year

The Chinese Embassy in Rwanda organized a party to mark the end of three months of celebrations of the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of China-Rwanda diplomatic relations.

The show was characterised by exciting performances by Tianjin Arts Troupe of China,which showcased Chinese dance, percussion and acrobatics much to the joy of the guests. To reflectdiversity, the National Ballet-(Urukerereza) staged rich Kinyarwanda traditional performances.

Different Chinese and Rwandan dignitaries were present at the party including China’s ambassador to Rwanda Shou Zhan and Rwanda’s minister of Sports and Culture, ProtaisMitari.

Guests also included members of the Chinese Diaspora in Rwanda.In his key address, Minister of Sports and Culture ProtaisMitari said Rwanda is delighted with what has been attained during 40 years of bilateral cooperation with China.

The Minister highlighted the strong bilateral ties between Rwanda and China, noting that the eventshowed how diverse the cultures of the two countries can get. He noted that the two countries have shared a longhistory of ties, ranging from economy to culture.

Both countries have signed bilateral agreements in various domains includingexchange of cultural dancers, with a view to share and supplement both countries positive cultural values.

China’s ambassador to Rwanda ShouZhan, said it is better for China and Rwanda to establish bilateral relations saying that both countries are developing nations. He however hailed the need for citizens of both countries to meet and exchange cultural practices.

China established diplomatic relations with Rwanda back in 1971. Over the past 4years, the volume of trade between Rwanda and China which is the world’s second largest economy, increased five times.

China has also completed more than 30 key investment projects in priority areas of Rwanda’s development.

Activities to mark the event which began on November 12, 2011, ended with the rewarding of three Rwandans, who excelled in an essay writing competition on China-Rwanda relations.