A high-level Chinese delegation headed by Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Li Zhaozhuo, met in Kigall Friday with Rwandan Prime Minister Bernard Makuza and parliament leaders.

Makuza commended the economic and social achievements China has made over the past decades. On bilateral relations, Makuza gave positive assessment of the Rwanda-China ties and stressed the importance of boosting mutual support in international affairs.

The Rwandan government and people must thank China for its unwavering support to the country as it went through different stages of development.

Makuza said he was optimistic about stronger ties with China, hoping for closer collaboration between the two countries, particularly in fields such as economics and trade, agriculture and energy, based on the principle of mutual respect and mutual benefit.

The Rwandan government and people will continue to support the one- China policy and respect China’s position and will on issues concerning its core interests, he added.

Li agreed with Makuza on his positive assessment of Sino-Rwandan relations, saying the two sides have long understood and supported each other on political issues, carried out fruitful and diversified cooperation in economics and trade, and maintained close coordination in international affairs.

He said China appreciates Rwanda’s firm and long-standing support for China on issues concerning its core interests such as Taiwan and Tibet. It wishes to carry on the present positive trend in Sino-Rwandan relations within the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation framework.

Li also introduced China’s socialist democracy and political consultation system to President of the Senate Vincent Biruta and President of the Chamber of Deputies Rose Mukantabana.

He said the CPPCC looks forward to furthering exchanges and friendship with the Rwandan parliament.

Rwanda is the second leg of Li’s three-nation Africa tour, which had brought him to Ghana. He will also visit Mozambique.

[Xinhua]