The Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Shu Zhan, has commended Rwanda for creating an investment friendly environment.

He made the remarks, Thursday evening, during a reception to welcome the new First Consular at the Embassy, Chen Dong, and to bid farewell to the outgoing one, at the premises of the Chinese embassy.

"I have visited all the Chinese companies here and encouraged them to benefit from the conducive environment and invest in Rwanda, particularly in agriculture, energy and agro-industry,” Zhan said.

The Ambassador pointed out that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Rwanda.

He added that the trade value between the two countries reached US$88.6 million in 2010 and by June this year, it had increased to US$76.4m, close to the same period last year.

"I believe that with the efforts of the two sides, China and Rwanda’s ties will grow stronger and closer,” Zhan noted.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mary Baine, hailed China for its continued support to Rwanda.

"We do appreciate the work done by the Chinese nationals who are involved in infrastructural development in our country,” she said, adding that more Chinese are welcome to invest.

The event brought together several government officials, diplomats and the business community.

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