On Friday, July 11, 2025, a ceremony was held at the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda to commemorate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The event was presided over by Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, GAO Wenqi, alongside the Military Attaché at the Chinese Embassy in Kigali, Senior Captain (Navy) LI Dayi.
The Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) were represented by Maj. Gen. Alex Kagame, Commander of the Reserve Forces.
During the ceremony, Sr. Capt. (Navy) LI Dayi highlighted that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, the PLA has continued to follow China’s national defense policy and the path of peaceful development, playing a key role in protecting national sovereignty, security, and development interests, while also contributing to global peace and security.
He added that China-Rwanda relations have reached their historical peak, stating that China is ready to deepen cooperation and friendship with Rwanda.
On his part, Maj. Gen. Kagame praised the PLA for the tremendous progress it has achieved, emphasizing that the RDF and PLA share common historical backgrounds and values, as both forces were born out of liberation struggles to restore dignity and self-determination to their people.
He affirmed Rwanda’s commitment to expanding cooperation and military ties between RDF and PLA.
