The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, an international peace and security dialogue, by Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun.

According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Defence, the deal marks a significant milestone in the two nations’ defence collaboration, which has been nurtured over several decades.

The relationship between the ruling parties of both countries the Rwandan Patriotic Front (FPR Inkotanyi) and the Communist Party of China (CPC) has often been described as one built on shared histories of struggle, liberation, and the pursuit of true independence.

This common legacy has shaped the strong bond between their respective armed forces, which are known for their discipline, professionalism, and even similarities in drill practices.

Diplomatic ties between Rwanda and China span 54 years, with cooperation extending across multiple sectors such as trade, investment, healthcare, education, agriculture, and technology.

In recent years, China has become one of Rwanda’s top investors, with inflows rising from USD 280 million in 2020 to USD 460 million by 2024.

During a courtesy call on July 29, 2025, President Paul Kagame assured China’s new Ambassador to Rwanda, Gao Wenqi, of Rwanda’s readiness to deepen this partnership. Ambassador Gao, in turn, reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to advancing joint initiatives that serve the interests of both nations.