China will exempt Rwanda from its debt of RMB113.18 million yuan (US$13.64 million) and US$2.7 million according to a plan on debt exemption and reduction set forth during the Sino-African forum for cooperation, Chinese President Jiang Zemin announced Monday afternoon.
In a meeting between Jiang and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Jiang said that the Chinese government will give RMB30 million yuan (US$3.61 million) to Rwanda to carry out cooperative projects between the two countries.
Jiang said that this year marks the 30th anniversary of Sino-Rwandan ties, and hoped that Kagame's visit will further promote bilateral friendly relations.
He said China has survived the invasions of foreign countries and the Kuomintang's corrupt reign, and the Chinese people thus realized that social stability and the nation's development are very important.
China hopes that the world can enjoy peace and development in the 21st century, Jiang said.
China and Rwanda have promoted mutual understanding, trust and cooperation since the two countries forged diplomatic ties, especially since Kagame took his presidency, Jiang said. He spoke highly of the trade and economic cooperation between the two sides, saying that China will continue to cooperate with Rwanda in this regard.
Jiang also expressed gratitude for the support by Rwanda and other developing countries in the process of China's entry to the World Trade Organization and for other international matters.
Kagame said that the 30-year ties demonstrate the good foundation of cooperation between China and Rwanda. Rwanda has learned a lot from China, and hopes to continue its cooperation with China. China is not only Rwanda's friend, but also a friend of Africa, he said.
He congratulated China on its entry to the WTO, saying that this will promote equality and justice in the international community.
An agreement between China and Rwanda on economic and technological cooperation, and a protocol on exempting Rwanda's debt to China were signed after the meeting.
(Xinhua News Agency November 13, 2001)
