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The pledge translates into the creation of at least 680 jobs per day with a special focus on women and youth, according to the ruling party’s five-year manifesto.

The plan entails a stronger collaboration with the private sector to boost productivity and economic growth over the 2024-2029 period.

Available statistics indicate that the job creation rate has been on an upward trajectory over the last seven years. This is despite the measures put in place to protect the health of the population during the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily halted some economic activities.

“By the year 2024, a total of 1,200,000 jobs have been created, representing 80% of the planned target,” the manifesto reads in part.

To achieve the new target, the RPF party plans to continue promoting technical and language skills, improving job market readiness, and supporting entrepreneurs to access capital.

“There will be increased efforts to facilitate small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in accessing capital and enhancing project management skills to create more jobs,” the manifesto adds.

Additionally, the RPF plans to establish a mechanism to increase the number of jobs generated by large projects in various sectors, leveraging existing economic opportunities such as Bugesera International Airport, which is expected to start operations by 2028, Nyagatare Milk Plant, and the newly refurbished Amahoro Stadium.

Other efforts include the creation of a system that would simplify the exchange of information between employers and job seekers.

RPF further commits to promoting and forging partnerships aimed at increasing knowledge and job opportunities in the national, regional, and international job markets through economic diplomacy.

Innovations

The ruling party pledges to improve programs that develop technology and science projects, fostering innovation that creates jobs. The Kagame administration also commits to intensified efforts to create new jobs in cross-border services and the creative industry.

If re-elected the RPF administration also promises to enhance the capacity of professional associations and skill providers (sector skills councils) so that the private sector can collaborate with skill providers to identify and focus on job market needs.

Partnerships between the public and private sectors will also be prioritised to help the youth gain practical experience and learn on the job.

Part of the RPF administration’s plan to create new jobs includes expanding local industries with the output projected to grow by at least 13 percent annually until 2029.

To minimise expenditure on imports, plans are underway to set up a glass manufacturing plant for construction materials and bottles for beverage industries.

Further, the party pledges to increase the capacity of existing industries processing agricultural and livestock products with focus being on adding value to products for both domestic and international markets.

At least three new pharmaceutical industries producing medicines and other medical supplies will be established within the next five years.

Other projects include the establishment of a lithium processing plant to add value before export, alongside improvements in the processing of other valuable minerals like gemstones. A plant for manufacturing ceramics, tiles, and other related products is also among the pledges.

The unemployment rate in Rwanda stood at 12.9 percent by the end of the first quarter of 2024, according to the Labour Force survey conducted by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).

The unemployment rate dropped by 4.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2024. NISR said the significant decline brought back the unemployment rate to the pre-COVID-19 estimate of 13.1 per cent.

The latest trend shows that in the first quarter of 2024, one person was unemployed for every eight people in the labour force.

According to the report, gender disparities persist in unemployment, with females experiencing a higher rate at 14.5 per cent compared to males at 11.5 percent.

Furthermore, youth face a notably higher unemployment rate of 16.6 percent compared to adults at 10.3 percent.

Part of the RPF administration’s plan to create new jobs includes expanding local industries with the output projected to grow by at least 13 percent annually until 2029.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The exams were launched at Groupe SCholaire Gisozi, located in Gasabo District, where 465 candidates, including 239 boys and 226 girls, are expected to sit the exams.

Nationwide, 202,999 students, comprising 91,189 boys and 111,810 girls, will sit the exams at 1,118 sites across the country, concluding on July 10, 2024.

The exams cover five subjects: Mathematics, Kinyarwanda, English, Science and Elementary Technology (SET), and General Knowledge and Religion.

On the first day, candidates sit for two exams, followed by two more the next day, and end with one exam on the final day.

In his remarks, Twagirayezu noted that unlike previous years where education was affected by COVID-19, this year had no significant issues, and students are well-prepared and expected to perform well.

'Exams are a way to assess the students’ understanding. We will continue to review the outcomes, correct what didn’t go well, and reinforce what did,' he said.

In addition to ensuring children attend exams on time, the Minister emphasized the crucial role of parents in supporting their children’s education, working alongside teachers to foster learning, as educating the nation requires collective effort.

'When it comes to exams, which is an annual event, we ask parents to help their children review their lessons, ensure they get enough rest, and arrive at the exam sites on time,' he said.

In his message to the students, Twagirayezu encouraged them to stay calm and perform well, assuring them that the exams were prepared by their teachers, so they should not be fearful.

Regarding students with disabilities, stated that provisions were made according to their needs, including large print materials, readers, and extended time for completion, with a team ready to provide assistance wherever necessary.

As Twagirayezu launched the exams at G.S Gisozi, the State Secretary in MINEDUC, Irere Claudette, launched them at Groupe Scholaire Institute Filip Simaldone in Nyarugenge District.

Officials from various institutions under the Ministry of Education also inaugurated the exams in different parts of the country.

Dr. Bahati Bernard, the Head of the National Examinations and School Inspection Authority (NESA), was in Nyaruguru District at Groupe Scholaire Muhambara.

Rwanda TVET Board (RTB) Director General, Eng. Paul Umukunzi, was at Groupe Scholaire Rusongati in Rubavu, and the Director General in charge of Education Policy and Analysis in the Ministry of Education, Rose Baguma, launched the exams at Groupe Scholaire Mayange in Bugesera District.

Rwanda Education Board Director, Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, was at Groupe Scholaire Nyakarenzo in Rusizi District, while the Head of the Quality Assurance Department in NESA, Mr Kavutse Vianney Augustine, inaugurated the exams at Groupe Scholaire Musenyi in Nyagatare District

Last year, MINEDUC reported that girls had a higher pass rate compared to boys. Out of 201,679 students who sat the exams, 91.09% passed, with girls making up 55.29% of the pass rate and boys 44.71%.

Minister of Education, Gaspard Twagirayezu, hands over examination papers to students at G.S Gisozi I

Mayor Dusengiyumva hands over examination paper to students.

Minister Twagirayezu told the students not to be afraid because the exams were prepared by their own teachers.

Sam K Nkurunziza

'Be lions, not dogs. A lion cannot become a dog. You have the responsibility and obligation to step in and uphold the legacy that your fathers have established,' he said in reference to the youths, comprising the majority of those who turned up for the rally

The Head of State was addressing hundreds of thousands of fans from Nyagatare and Gatsibo districts while canvasing votes for RPF-Inkotanyi, a political Party for which he is the flag bearer.

Lions are fascinating creatures that inspire awe and admiration for several reasons. They are thought to be strong and courageous. Their social bonds and beauty, are of substantial ecological significance.

It is in this spirit that Kagame implored the people to be fearless, vigilant, and hardworking — traits synonymous with lions in various cultures and contexts.

He gave a rhetoric of how coincidentally, his family fled to neighboring Uganda through Nyagatare district in the 1950s and it’s the same route he used while leading RPA in the liberation struggle.

'I was a young kid when we became refugees in the neighbouring country. Ironically, the route we used to escape is the same route we came through during the liberation struggle in 1990,' he recalled.

'As we fled for our lives, most people left behind were uncertain about tomorrow. Upon return, we have ensured that every Rwandan has hope of living beyond just today.'

Kagame underscored that having fled and returned alive to contribute to Rwanda’s development has made him appreciate how lucky he is.

'I feel like the luckiest person on earth. Going through all those hard times but still survive is not because of my hard work, it’s just a blessing to keep serving my people.

'I don’t take this for granted, I always strive to use this opportunity to extend support to those who need my help while ensuring that those who lost their lives along this journey did not die in vain,' he remarked.

Kagame also addressed residents of Kayonza, Ngoma and Rwamagana districts who pledged to do anything in his reach to accelerate the continuous development strategies put in place by his government.

'Bringing development to your area is not a favour we do for you. It’s our obligation and we have to be held accountable,' he said

The president concluded by thanking other political parties that have merged with RPF in a coalition to extend constructive ideas with a major focus on building the nation.

'We can achieve a lot together despite our differences in beliefs and ideology. Let us all be proud to be Rwandans because the country is also proud to have us together,' he remarked.

Eight political parties in the forthcoming election have formed a coalition with the ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF). They are the Liberal Party (PL), Social Democratic Party (PSD), Ideal Democratic Party (PDI), Democratic Union of the Rwandan People’s Party (UDPR), Prosperity and Solidarity Party (PSP) and Rwandan Socialist Party (PSR).

The Head of State was addressing hundreds of thousands of fans from Nyagatare and Gatsibo districts while canvasing votes for RPF-Inkotanyi, a political Party for which he is the flag bearer.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The creation story in the Book of Genesis describes how in just seven days, God created heaven and earth including air, water, plants, animals etc., and on the last day, he created human beings (Adam and Eve).

It is clearly outlined how and why God intentionally created the world, a place we all dearly call home.

In his wisdom, The Almighty designated man as a very special creature and bestowed upon him the responsibility to take good care of all other creatures, according to what is written in the Holy Book.

Collectively, he referred to everything he had put in place as the environment. Whether the creation story is true or not, that’s a discussion for another day.

So, as custodians of God’s very first assignment on co-existence in the world, human beings are expected to exhibit the highest level of discipline in ensuring environmental protection. Unless you are not a believer.

Modern science indicates that environmental sustainability helps in productive co-existence so much that if given attention, it would not only enhance environmental and health benefits but also foster economic growth and security of the world’s energy future.

Environmental sustainability involves measures such as resource conservation, reducing waste, promoting renewable energy and promoting sustainable communities. This struggle begins with humanity.

Experts say that a reduction in reliance on fossil fuels reduces emissions thereby mitigating the world’s carbon footprint, promoting renewable energy sources, and contributing to global efforts in mitigating global warming and climate change.

This is a substantive obligation requiring countries and governments globally to take action in unison.

It may be a negotiation by governments to reduce fossil fuels because as finite resources, their extraction contributes to environmental degradation and yet their conservation promotes renewable energy sources thereby enhancing the world’s energy security.

It may be a relatively brief framework agreement or an extensively detailed policy. Either way, it would be grounded on fundamental principles of justice and equity considering all provisions to set up relevant institutions to enable a global just transition.

This is because depending less on fossil fuels reduces vulnerability to price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions associated with fossil fuel dependence.

Some scholars argue that investing in renewable energy infrastructure can stimulate economic growth and create new job opportunities in an emerging and thriving green economy.

This, they say, can boost local industries, attract foreign investment, and foster innovation in renewable energy technologies.

It means that with extra efforts, the goal of enabling the rapid, equitable, and comprehensive transformation needed to ensure a safe climate, healthy economy, and sustainable future for all people is not beyond reach.

Fortunately, Rwanda stands an advantage. The country has already established itself as a global leader in this regard. Energy policies aligned with long-term sustainability goals and preserving natural resources for future generations are already in place.

Rwanda’s commitment to global initiatives aimed at fostering international cooperation to accelerate a transition to clean energy for everyone is undoubtedly visible.

Already, there are strong provisions relating to the promotion of green/clean energy that exist. Many of them relate to transparency and compliance with international standards.
Thus, there is a treaty in the offing (which I think Rwanda should consider) that requires capacity building to support the global cause of living up to the role of humanity as the original custodians of God’s initial assignment on co-existence.

It requires the world to transition away from fossil fuels as a way of improving public health by reducing air pollution. This shift can lead to fewer respiratory diseases and other health issues associated with poor air quality. This is the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FFNPT).

The FFNPT initiative recognizes that the current climate crisis poses an existential threat as serious as the threat of weapons of mass destruction. It stipulates a design directed to incentivize independent country governments to take or avoid particular actions.

With international support, a collaborative effort is currently underway to explore ways to end the expansion of fossil fuels and phase out existing production, based on equity and common but differentiated responsibilities.

This will translate into an end to expansion of oil, gas and coal, and wind down existing production in keeping with what science shows is needed to address the climate crisis.
Accordingly, this threat requires comprehensive responses, like the way the world negotiated nuclear disarmament treaties, and a clear focus on phasing out the production of fossil fuels in line with the 1.5°C global climate goal.

Unfortunately, currently, only a few countries produce renewable energy equipment and technologies. Yet, a renewable energy revolution can offer opportunity for most countries and regions to actively produce equipment for their own needs.

But in my view, Rwanda’s deliberate access to technology can be an appropriate safeguarding tool and an important basis for sound industrialization and economic diversification through environmental protection.

If Rwanda endorsed FFNPT, it would automatically benefit from a Global Just Transition Fund, an initiative set up to facilitate and support economic diversification and the transition to renewable energy.

Rwanda, like many nations globally, should consider embracing the Treaty for several compelling reasons. Besides, this can strengthen diplomatic relations and partnerships with other nations committed to addressing climate change.

From the look of things, significant momentum is building behind the call for a treaty as a means to accelerate a fair, fast and financed transition away from fossil fuels – the main driver of the climate crisis.

Rwanda stands to gain significantly from embracing it and that’s why I think it should be endorsed.

Modern science indicates that environmental sustainability helps in productive co-existence so much that if given attention, it would not only enhance environmental and health benefits but also foster economic growth and security of the world’s energy future.

Sam K Nkurunziza

This follows talks between Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, and DRC’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Gracia Yamba Kazadi, in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The “constructive and solution-oriented” engagement was facilitated by Tanzania and South Sudan, the two co-chairs of the ongoing retreat bringing together ministers from the member states of the East African Community (EAC).

Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe during the meeting in Zanzibar.

During the meeting, the two ministers are said to have demonstrated goodwill to resolve the existing conflict and endorsed a political solution as the best way out.

The talks were held in the presence of Ministers from Uganda and Kenya, and of the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of political affairs.

Also present at the meeting was Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation James Kabarebe.

“The meeting took place in a constructive and solution-oriented spirit, and the ministers of the two neighbouring countries, who demonstrated goodwill, underscored the need for a political solution to the crisis in eastern DRC,” Nduhungirehe said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) Sunday.

“In this regard, concrete decisions were taken to reinvigorate Luanda and Nairobi peace processes,” he added without revealing details of the decisions taken.

Rwanda’s Minister of State James Kabarebe during the meeting in Zanzibar.

The three-day retreat kicked off in Zanzibar yesterday and offers a unique opportunity to engage in thoughtful discussions, share insights, and collectively strategize on ways to foster sustainable peace, enhance security cooperation, and strengthen relationships among partner states.

The retreat comes a month after President Paul Kagame urged the EAC Secretariat to convene the ministerial meeting as a matter of urgency to address existing security issues in the region.

Speaking during the 23rd extraordinary summit of EAC Heads of State early last month, President Kagame disclosed an offer by Tanzania President Samia Suluhu to host the meeting.

Rwanda and DRC have been at loggerheads over the conflict in eastern DRC, which some leaders argue poses significant security threats to the Great Lakes region.

The conflict between Rwanda and the DRC has deep historical roots, including issues related to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda and the presence of the FDLR militia in eastern DRC. The FDLR militia comprises remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. Both countries accuse each other of supporting rebel groups that destabilize the region, but Rwanda denies any involvement.

Efforts under the Luanda and Nairobi processes aim to create sustainable peace by addressing these underlying issues through dialogue, regional cooperation, and comprehensive security arrangements.

The Rwandan government has on several occasions accused DRC leader Felix Tshisekedi of frustrating the peace initiatives.

“There are processes in our region. There is the Luanda process in Angola, and there has been the Nairobi process in Kenya. There have been other efforts to try and help resolve the problems. For Rwanda, we have always been present and have contributed as much as we can to make it work.

“However, Congo had other ideas. When the East African Community deployed forces to help, the next day, he expelled them and selected those he believed would fight for him to continue what he has been doing. He brought in SADC forces and detached Burundi from the East African forces,” President Kagame said during a recent interview on France 24.

The engagement was facilitated by Tanzania and South Sudan, the two co-chairs of the ongoing retreat bringing together ministers from the member states of the East African Community (EAC).

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Global Arcus provides these opportunities worldwide, and in Rwanda, they are collaborating with Mega Global Link to make them more accessible to Rwandans.

To be considered for a scholarship to study in India, you need to visit Global Arcus’ website and take an assessment that will help determine your eligibility. This assessment is scheduled to open on Sunday, July 7 and close on Saturday, July 20, 2024.

The opportunities are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies in various fields, including technology, business, law, health, and more, at different state universities in India, which offer internationally recognized degrees.

If you pass this initial assessment, you will receive a certificate confirming your success. The next step is to visit the Mega Global Link office to proceed with the registration process, obtain a visa, and more.

Those who pass the assessment on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at 2:00 PM, along with anyone seeking information (students or parents), will have a chance to meet with Sachin Shekhar, the CEO of Global Arcus from India. He will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.

Additionally, successful candidates will be given a free flight ticket to either Mumbai or Delhi Airport in India, from where they will proceed to their respective schools. Classes will start on August 16, 2024, and there will be a team from Global Arcus ready to monitor their progress daily.

Mega Global Link has a proven track record of providing various services for those wishing to study abroad, whether in Canada, America, or Europe, assisting not only students but also those going for work or tourism. Many have successfully achieved their goals through their help.

The opportunities are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies in various fields, including technology, business, law, health, and more, at different state universities in India, which offer internationally recognized degrees.

IGIHE

Starmer announced the cancellation of the scheme introduced by the Conservative Party in his first news conference on Saturday, July 6, 2024.

The prime minister argued that the former administration’s strategy to deter illegal migrants from arriving in the UK via small boats across the English Channel was 'dead and buried before it started'.

'It’s never acted as a deterrent. Almost the opposite,' Starmer stated after holding his first Cabinet meeting at 10 Downing St.

The Labour Party leader had pledged to scrap the Rwanda plan if they won the July 4 general election, and on Friday, the party secured a landslide victory, winning over 400 seats. The poll victory ended 14 years of Conservative rule.

Starmer’s predecessor, Rishi Sunak of the Conservative Party, had earlier announced that the first flights would depart to Rwanda after the polls.

Sunak’s plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda received a green light in April after Parliament voted to pass the contentious bill declaring the country safe.

The Lords had earlier refused to pass the bill without further amendments, including the inclusion of a provision exempting agents, allies, and employees of the UK overseas, including Afghans who fought alongside the British Armed Forces, from being removed to Rwanda.

The Lords also demanded tighter checks on the safety of Rwanda for asylum seekers to ensure the scheme had “due regard” for domestic and international law.

Despite the passing of the legislation, nobody was sent to Rwanda. Two failed asylum seekers were, however, reported to have been moved to Rwanda voluntarily under a separate agreement that saw them offered a £3,000 incentive.

The Rwanda scheme was first announced in April 2022 by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government following a deal with Rwandan authorities.

The bill was introduced to Parliament after the UK Supreme Court ruled that the government’s scheme was unlawful. The judges argued that genuine refugees being removed to Rwanda faced the risk of being returned to their home countries, where they could face harm. The Rwandan authorities denied the claims.

Sunak’s administration planned to offer failed asylum seekers up to £3,000 (RWF 4,866,727) to move to Rwanda under the voluntary scheme.

New UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the cancellation of the scheme introduced by the Conservative Party in his first news conference on Saturday, July 6, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

He says that his choice to establish a home at Bugesera was due to an unwavering desire to disprove negative superstitions that have for long surrounded people living in this area.

'It has always been perceived that the people here are naturally cursed and condemned to die due to distorted historical narratives about this area. By coming here I wanted to prove them wrong,' Kagame said on Saturday, July 6, 2024, during his party’s campaign rally in Ruhuha Sector, Bugesera District.

Historically, Bugesera was an uninhabited region of Rwanda, covered with dense forests and rife with Tse Tse flies.

After the 1959 revolution (during the regime of President Glegoire Kayibanda, and his successor Juvenal Habyarimana), many Tutsis were forcibly relocated to the Bugesera region.

The intention was to massacre them, to the extent that, whoever would survive, could be stung by the deadly Tse Tse flies.

In 1992, massacres that amounted to a rehearsal of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi occurred in Bugesera District. Interahamwe militia of the MRND and Impuzamugambi from CDR political party travelled from Kigali and launched attacks in Bugesera, killing many Tutsis.

From this perspective, Kagame says that he decided to build a home there, to defy that narrative, as a symbol that every Rwandan has a right to life and there is no place where people are cursed.

The Head of State had earlier responded in the affirmative to a request from renowned songbird Ingabire Jeanne Butera better known as “Knowless”, who had pleaded with him to invite his neighbours for a get-together at his country home.

Prior to that, Butera shared her story of a humble beginning recalling how the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi left her with three family members who would die later on, leaving her with only one person in her life.

'My only surviving relative would go early in the morning, leaving me alone in the small house where we lived. Because I was afraid, I adopted a tactic of singing and shouting to scare them away,' she said.

Nine days to voting day, excitement and anticipation are mounting amongst the public, especially first-time voters.

'I can’t wait for the voting day so that I can exercise my responsibility and engage in their country’s democratic process,' said 19-year-old Fulgence Muhawenimana, a resident of Muhima Sector in Nyarugenge District.

President Kagame says that his choice to establish a home at Bugesera District was due to an unwavering desire to disprove negative superstitions that have for long surrounded people living in the area.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Xi landed earlier in the day in Kazakhstan, where he will also attend the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a grand welcoming ceremony at the airport. On Tuesday evening, the two leaders had a cordial and friendly exchange over dinner in a pleasant and warm atmosphere, discussing issues related to bilateral ties and issues of common concern.

Kazakh fighter jets paint the sky with colored smoke trails as Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hosts a welcome ceremony for visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping, in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Lu Jinbo)

UNIQUE PARTNERSHIP

This is Xi’s fifth visit to Kazakhstan and the second one in less than two years, following his previous state visit in September 2022.

“Thirty-two years ago, China was among the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan’s independence. China-Kazakhstan relations have since embarked on a new journey,” Xi noted in a signed article published in the Kazakh media on Tuesday ahead of his visit.

Meanwhile, in a written statement upon his arrival in Astana, Xi said over the past 32 years since the two countries established diplomatic ties, their relationship has withstood the test of time and the vicissitudes of the international landscape, evolving into a unique permanent comprehensive strategic partnership.

Xi recalled that 11 years ago, he first put forward the initiative of jointly building the Silk Road Economic Belt in Kazakhstan, adding that today, Belt and Road cooperation between China and Kazakhstan has yielded fruitful results.

Two-way economic and trade cooperation has reached new highs, people-to-people and cultural exchanges have featured numerous highlights, and the two sides’ international cooperation has been close and efficient, which has not only improved the well-being of the two peoples, but also injected more stability and positive energy into the international and regional situation, Xi added.

China was Kazakhstan’s largest trading partner in 2023, with two-way trade up by 32 percent year-on-year to reach 41 billion U.S. dollars. Key exports from Kazakhstan to China include crude oil, metals, and agricultural products, and China has supplied Kazakhstan with machinery, electronics, and consumer goods.

Over the past year alone, a number of important agreements have been sealed, including the implementation of a mutual visa-free policy, the construction of a third railway checkpoint, the establishment of cultural centers, and the announcement of 2024 as the “Kazakhstan Tourism Year” in China.

The Kazakhstan-China relationship is built upon strong bonds of solid friendship and good neighborliness, Tokayev told Xinhua in an interview prior to Xi’s visit, noting that bilateral cooperation embarked on a new “golden 30 years” during Xi’s previous visit in 2022, the year marking the 30th anniversary of bilateral ties.

A grand welcoming ceremony is held by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping at the airport in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 2, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

Xi’s visit this time is expected to bring a renewed focus on the multifaceted aspects of bilateral ties and cooperation.

In a series of meetings scheduled with Tokayev, Xi is expected to engage in detailed discussions aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the two nations. In Xi’s words, he and Tokayev will “meet and plan the way forward for further growth of China-Kazakhstan relations and discuss how best to take the China-Kazakhstan permanent comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights.”

“Kazakhstan and China are close neighbors, true friends, and partners. Today, both countries are at a key stage of their development and revival,” said Gulnar Shaimergenova, director of Kazakhstan’s China Studies Center.

The leaders of both countries have opened a new “golden 30 years” of bilateral cooperation, she said, adding that with bilateral relations growing at a high level, it is believed that Xi’s visit this time will open up new prospects for bilateral cooperation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 2, 2024, for the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and a state visit to Kazakhstan at the invitation of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

EVERLASTING FRIENDSHIP

Xi said upon his arrival in Astana that the everlasting friendship of the two nations has grown stronger over time, and set an example of solidarity, mutual benefit, and mutual success between neighboring countries.

“The history of China-Kazakhstan friendly exchanges is a strong testament to the fact that the development of our bilateral relationship conforms to the trend of history and that of our times,” Xi said in his signed article under the title “Staying True to Our Shared Commitment and Opening a New Chapter in China-Kazakhstan Relations.”

Time has provided many heartwarming tales epitomizing the profound friendship between the two countries.

Over 2,000 years ago, Zhang Qian, a royal emissary from China led a diplomatic mission to the Western Regions, opening the door to friendship and exchanges between China and Central Asia. The ancient Silk Road, of which Zhang was a pioneer, contributed to the friendly exchanges and mutual learning between China and Kazakhstan.

And the new era has welcomed more China-Kazakhstan friendship envoys, such as the ophthalmologist Saulebek Kabibekov, the “panda-man” Ruslan Tulenov, who voluntarily donated his rare type of blood in China, and the popular singer Dimash Kudaibergen.

The everlasting friendship was also fully manifested through the inviting ambience at the airport in Astana upon Xi’s arrival.

“On the vast and beautiful land stands our beloved homeland. We love peace, we love our hometown. The unity and mutual love make us steel-like strong,” a group of Kazakh teenagers, in white costumes, greeted Xi at the airport with the song “Ode to the Motherland” in Chinese lyrics in a show of respect and warm welcome of the Kazakh people for Xi.

At the airport, Tokayev greeted Xi together with a team of senior government officials. Xi chatted occasionally with Tokayev, who can speak fluent Chinese as he began learning Chinese when he was in college. In his recent interview with Xinhua, Tokayev said he now reads books in Chinese regularly and stays informed about Chinese political and socio-economic development.

For long, China and Kazakhstan have recognized the importance of fostering greater understanding and friendship between their peoples, viewing cultural exchanges as one major cornerstone of their bilateral relationship.

A bilateral agreement on mutual establishment of cultural centers has been signed. Chinese and Kazakh filmmakers have co-produced a film entitled “The Composer,” their first co-production. Bilateral programs for cultural cooperation, including a Chinese university campus in Kazakhstan, a Luban Workshop, and a center of traditional Chinese medicine, have been implemented.

Thanks to the mutual visa-exemption arrangements, a total of 600,000 cross-border trips were recorded in 2023. In the first quarter of this year, the number of visits in both directions amounted to 200,000 and are expected to reach a new high, official data from both sides have shown.

Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on July 2, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

“Cultural and people-to-people cooperation plays an important role in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering friendship between the peoples of our countries,” Tokayev said.
“Our two countries need to strengthen public support for an everlasting China-Kazakhstan friendship. A deeper and stronger China-Kazakhstan friendship is what our two peoples aspire to. It is therefore important that we carry forward such friendship and enhance mutual understanding and affinity between our peoples through a diverse range of cultural and people-to-people exchange programs,” Xi said in his signed article.

Source: Xinhua

Xi made the remarks when meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Astana.

He noted that President Putin paid a successful state visit to China this May, saying that the two sides are working together to make plans and arrangements for the future development of bilateral relations at the important historical juncture of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Russia.

Facing an international situation fraught with turbulence and changes, the two countries should keep upholding the original aspiration of lasting friendship, and sticking to the determination of benefiting the people, Xi said.

He urged China and Russia to continuously conserve the unique value in China-Russia relations, and explore the internal driving force of bilateral cooperation, saying that the two countries should also make new efforts to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests and safeguard the basic norms governing international relations.

China supports Russia in fulfilling its responsibilities as BRICS chair, uniting the “Global South,” preventing a “new Cold War” and opposing illegal unilateral sanctions and hegemonism, he said.

Noting that the SCO Astana summit will be held on Thursday, Xi said the Chinese side looks forward to working with Russia and other member states to promote the steady and long-term development of the SCO and build an even closer SCO community with a shared future.

China and Russia, Xi said, should continue to strengthen comprehensive strategic coordination, oppose external interference and jointly safeguard regional tranquility and stability.

For his part, Putin thanked Xi for warmly receiving him on his state visit to China in May, recalling that they celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Russia and China and made plans for the future development of Russia-China relations.

At present, Russia-China relations are at the highest level in history, Putin said, adding that the two sides respect each other, and treat each other with equality and mutual benefit.

He also said that Russia-China relations feature non-alignment and do not target at any third party, which conforms to the well-being of the two peoples.

Russia, he said, supports China in safeguarding its core interests and legitimate rights and interests, and opposes external interference in China’s internal affairs and the South China Sea issue.

Noting that China will soon take over the rotating presidency of the SCO, he said Russia will fully support China’s work and work with other member states to continuously enhance the international influence of the organization, safeguard regional peace and security, and promote the development of the international system in a more just and equitable direction.

As the rotating chair of BRICS this year, Russia looks forward to strengthening communication and coordination with China on BRICS cooperation, he added.
The two heads of state also exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern.

Xi stressed that China always stands on the right side of history, adheres to promoting peace talks, and is willing to continue to make positive efforts for the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis and other regional hotspot issues.

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Source: Xinhua