President Xi's Diplomatic Tour: China, Rwanda vow to write new chapter in bilateral ties

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Before heading to South Africa, President Xi paid a state visit to Rwanda. The Chinese president and his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame, spoke highly of the growth of bilateral ties. They also agreed to further promote bilateral cooperation to bring more benefits to the Chinese, Rwandan and African people. Natasha Hussain has more.

A large ceremony was held in the nation's capital Kigali. Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan were welcomed by Rwandan president, Paul Kagame. It marked the first state visit to the east-central African country by a Chinese president since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1971.

In their talks, President Xi said China is willing to work with Rwanda to open a new chapter in their friendly cooperative relations. He called on the two nations to strengthen the link between their respective development strategies, and give full play to their complementary advantages.

Kagame, for his part, spoke highly of China's valuable assistance to Rwanda, expressing his hope to enhance cooperation with China within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. As the African Union's rotating chair, Kagame also stressed that China's long-standing firm support is of great value to Africa's development.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of multiple agreements on bilateral cooperation in the Belt and Road Initiative and other areas, showing their commitment to advance their relations. They also met the press together.

Later in the day, President Xi and his wife visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Rwanda was the third leg of the Chinese president's first overseas visit following his re-election in March. Kagame said President Xi's visit would further promote friendly relations between the two countries. Natasha Hussain, CGTN.