RPF, CPC eager to strengthen ties

China’s ruling party, the Communist Party of China (CPC), has invited a delegation of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) to the Asian country to engage in high level talks geared towards the socio-economic and political development of both countries. The invitation was extended by Li Yuanchao, a member of the Political Bureau and Secretariat, and minister of the Organisation Department, CPC Central Committee, who is in the country. Yuanchao is heading a 22-member delegation of CPC officials who yesterday held talks with their RPF counterparts on governance issues, particularly on settlement of legal disputes and fighting against corruption. He acknowledged that both parties share the same vision in uprooting poverty by developing programmes that directly benefit poor communities. “As we passed through the city, we recognised the steady development that the country has achieved in a very short time. We then visited a couple of local families, which helped us learn more about the socio-economic dynamism that the country has taken,” Yuanchao said. “CPC is interested in building ties with clean governments that have a commendable vision for development within the African context; therefore, we invite delegates from RPF to come to China this year and share with our cadres how best our partnership can be mutual”. He added that the Chinese government had earmarked funds for special training programmes for cadres within African political parties with a goal to help fight corruption on the continent. “We want to engage in practical exchanges with the Rwandan government. We know in the history of Africa how the Western colonies disrupted and plundered the continent; therefore we come with a different approach to sincerely listen and be of use, only on the basis of mutual respect and neutral benefit,” he added. Francois Ngarambe, the Secretary General of RPF, commended China for her initiative in contributing to the development of Rwanda. “China has emerged as a good model for Africa, which indicates that it is possible to develop and improve the lives of local citizens,” he said. The Chinese delegation arrived in the country on Monday for a three-day working visit. ivan.mugisha@newtimes.co.rw

National

RPF, CPC eager to strengthen ties