He made the remarks on the evening of July 22, 2026, during a ceremony organized by the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda to commemorate the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The event was attended by senior security officials, diplomats, and other invited guests. Maj. Gen. Alex Kagame represented the Chief of Defence Staff of the RDF, Gen. Mubarakh Muganga.
In his speech, Maj. Gen. Kagame congratulated the Chinese military on its achievements over nearly a century, noting that it has evolved into a highly capable force that has contributed not only to China’s national security but also to international peace and stability.
He emphasized that Rwanda highly values its longstanding relationship with China, describing the partnership as one that continues to expand across various sectors, including defense and security.
“Rwanda highly values its longstanding friendship with China. The relationship between our two countries continues to grow across many sectors, including military cooperation,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Kagame stated that cooperation between the RDF and the PLA has already produced tangible results, particularly in strengthening military capabilities, training, and professional development.
He noted that China’s support through professional military education and specialized training has significantly contributed to improving the RDF’s professionalism and operational effectiveness.
“The cooperation between the Chinese People’s Liberation Army and the Rwanda Defence Force continues to deliver concrete results. China’s support in military education and specialized training has made a significant contribution to the ongoing development of the RDF’s capabilities,” he added.
He further said that as global security challenges continue to evolve, armed forces increasingly require trusted partnerships to enhance capabilities, improve professionalism, and work together to maintain peace and security.
Maj. Gen. Kagame reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening military cooperation with China in support of regional and international peace and security.
China Pledges Deeper Military Cooperation with Rwanda
Senior Captain (Navy) Li Dayi, China’s Defense Attaché at the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda, said military relations between the PLA and the RDF continue to grow through training programs, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building initiatives.
He described defense cooperation as a key pillar of the broader relationship between Rwanda and China, noting that it has delivered meaningful benefits to both militaries.
Li Dayi said China is committed to further expanding military ties with Rwanda based on mutual respect and shared interests, with the goal of contributing to peace and security.
He highlighted the long history of cooperation between the two countries, saying military collaboration has become one of the strongest pillars of their bilateral friendship.
Li added that China stands ready to continue working closely with Rwanda to deepen military relations, promote regional peace and stability, and support broader development objectives.
The anniversary celebration took place as Rwanda and China continue to strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors, with defense collaboration remaining one of the key foundations of their growing bilateral relationship.
Courtesy of IGIHE
