IGIHE

Author: RAO Hongwei

  • China and Rwanda jointly fight against Covid-19 for a Community with Shared Future

    In the tenacious fight against Covid-19, China and Rwanda have extended helping hands to each other and engaged in extensive mutual support. China will never forget the sincere assistance from Rwanda during its most difficult period to defeat the virus.

    President Paul Kagame and Secretary General Francois Ngarambe of Rwanda Patriotic Front sent letters of solidarity and support to the Chinese government and the Communist Party of China respectively.

    Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement to express trust and support for China. Rwanda-China Alumni made special video, sending Chinese people their sympathy and best wishes.

    Since Rwanda initiated its all-out fight against Covid-19 from middle March, China has been repaying goodwill to Rwanda with greater kindness.

    Through different channels and at different levels, the Chinese government and people have continuously donated dozens of batches of medical supplies to the RBC, RPF, RDF, parliament, as well as the emergency food to low-income households.

    The Chinese medical experts also share the epidemic control practices, diagnostics and therapeutics with their Rwandan counterparts. All these fully demonstrate the precious friendship between our two countries in the times of adversity.

    At the Extraordinary China-Africa Summit on Solidarity against Covid-19, the meeting to Commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations and on other multi-lateral occasions, both President Xi Jinping and President Kagame insist solidarity and cooperation as the only way to defeat the virus, rejecting stigmatization or name-calling associated with the virus, supporting WHO’s lead role in global response efforts, and keeping global industrial and supply chains secure and stable for economic recovery.

    On October 8, China officially joined COVAX and solemnly pledged to make vaccines developed and deployed by China a global public good and ensure early access for developing countries. It has been welcomed and supported by the international community, especially African countries, as we all believe only through global efforts and commitments can we win the fight against the pandemic.

    Thanks to our effective leadership, strong action and unwavering commitments in responding to Covid-19, China and Rwanda are among the few countries to keep the pandemic under control.

    As the country firstly hit by Covid-19, China knows the significance of trustful institutions, universal health coverage, well-supported health workers and transparent public health communications in this fight. China highly commends Rwanda for the achievements in these aspects. Hand in hand, China and Rwanda have shown the world our determination to defeat Covid-19 with solidarity and cooperation, writing a new chapter in the bilateral relations.

    Geographically far apart as China and Rwanda are, as developing countries, both countries pursue the goal of poverty eradication and boosting the economy. We share the aspiration to achieve national prosperity and a better life for our peoples.

    At present, China and Rwanda are facing the daunting task to beat the virus while stabilizing the economy and protecting livelihoods.

    Although the virus has brought about many restraints to the bilateral exchanges, the cooperation still keeps a strong momentum and shows huge resilience. Partners from both countries have kept in touch and coordination through various channels, thus ensured steady progress of major projects such as Nyabarongo II Hydro-power station, Masaka Hospital Renovation and Expansion, Smart Education, just to name a few.

    Also, to facilitate travel for reopening the economy, Rwanda Air has resumed the direct flight between Kigali and Guangzhou. E-WTP is another successful story during the pandemic. Last May in an online promotion event organized by Alibaba Group and Rwandan Embassy in China, 3000 bags of Rwandan coffee beans were sold out just in seconds. Under the e-WTP program, Rwandan farmers can now earn 4 more US dollars per kilo at T-mall because of the direct sales channel to Chinese consumers.

    On September 28th, 2020, the 8th session of Rwanda-China Joint Committee on Economic, Technical and Trade was successfully held virtually. This session is the first meeting held under a trade and economic mechanism between China and an African country since the Covid-19 outbreak began.

    Thirteen Rwandan cabinet members attended the session, discussing with the Chinese counterparts on topics of bilateral cooperation in trade, infrastructure, investment and development assistance, especially in aligning Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and China’s Belt and Road initiative, accelerating the registration of Rwanda’s agriculture products exporters in China, and deepening cooperation in digital economy etc.

    All these will contribute to the enhancement of bilateral ties in the Post- Covid-19 era.

    Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Rwanda. Though a lot has been changed because of the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, but not the friendly exchanges and cooperation between China and Rwanda.

    The two sides will not only celebrate the anniversary in flexible and diverse ways, but also take this chance to open up new chapters of common development and prosperity, so as to make further contributions to a community with shared future for mankind.

    {{The Author is Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Rwanda}}

  • The Significance of the National Security Law for Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

    First, the National Security Law for Hong Kong SAR is a sound legal framework establishing at the national level and an enforcement mechanism for safeguarding national security in Hong Kong SAR to meet people’s aspiration.

    Article 23 of the Basic Law authorizes Hong Kong SAR to enact laws on safeguarding national security. However, 23 years after Hong Kong’s return, nothing has been done and there is no legal framework or enforcement mechanism in terms of national security in Hong Kong SAR. As a result, the city is left “defenseless” against the anti-China forces seeking chaos and disruptions.

    For some time, internal and external hostile forces have openly clamored for “Hong Kong independence” and “self-determination”. They have taken actions such as beating, smashing, looting, arson, confronting police enforcement with violence, and storming the Legislative Council of Hong Kong SAR. They have even cried for “waging armed revolution to gain independence”. Such activities trampled on rule of law, undermined social stability, and hit the economy hard. Hong Kong has become a notable source of risk to China’s national security.

    Like any other country, the Chinese Central Government is responsible for upholding national security and cannot just sit by and do nothing. The National Security Law is about restoring order and responding to the outcry of the Hong Kong for chaos to be stopped. Only within eight days in late May, nearly three million Hong Kong people signed the petition in support of the Law.

    Second, the National Security Law for Hong Kong SAR not only is in line with “One Country, Two Systems”, but also ensures the sustained implementation of this policy.

    China’s guiding policy for the governance of Hong Kong is still “One Country, Two Systems”. This has not changed and won’t change in the future. Hong Kong is part of China. We have to defend our own country’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. This is what is meant by “One Country”. And within the framework of “One Country”, on the basis of secure and stable “One Country”, “Two Systems” can prosper in parallel and together. This is the real meaning of “One Country, Two Systems”.

    The new law is intended just for that purpose, to maintain and safeguard “One Country, Two Systems”, to make Hong Kong more stable, more secure for everybody, for the Hong Kong residents as well as for foreign investors. People could have a more predictable, safer environment to do their business and enjoy life in Hong Kong.

    Third, the National Security Law for Hong Kong SAR has no impact on Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents. It targets a very narrow category of acts that seriously jeopardize China’s national security.

    According to the Basic Law of Hong Kong, its capitalist system and way of life shall remain unchanged for 50 years. This will be better ensured, not changed, by the national security law. The four offences and their corresponding penalties are precisely prescribed in the law, namely, secession, subversion, terrorist activities, collusion with foreign countries or external elements to endanger national security. This means that the law is highly targeted. It bans such criminal activities and protects the rule of law in Hong Kong and legitimate rights and freedoms of the people there.

    Finally，one important task of the National Security Law for Hong Kong SAR is to prevent, suppress and punish collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security.

    Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China. Hong Kong affairs are China’s internal affairs and allow no external interference. No one should underestimate the firm determination of China to safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests. Attempts to disrupt or obstruct the implementation of the National Security Law for Hong Kong SAR will be met with the strong opposition of 1.4 billion Chinese people.

    The National Security Law for Hong Kong SAR is the fundamental solution that will end the chaos and restore order in Hong Kong. We, the Chinese are confident that, under the strong leadership of the Central Government of China, with the concerted efforts of all the Chinese people, including Hong Kong compatriots, and with the strong safeguards of the National Security Law for Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong will become a safer, better and more prosperous place.

    {{RAO Hongwei
    Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of
    the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Rwanda
    }}

  • Hand in Hand on Covid-19 Fight for a Community of Public Health for Mankind

    The latest statistics released by the Rwandan Ministry of Health indicate a better future. Early this week, there were more recoveries than active cases and the trend has continued till now. From May 4th, the lockdown measures have been partly eased and people’s life and work are returning to normal at a steady pace.

    What’s more, Rwanda contributed one million USD to the funding of the African Union and Africa Center of Disease Control to fight the pandemic. On different occasions, President Paul Kagame has firmly supported the leading role of the WHO in coronavirus fight and called for closer collaboration among members of the EAC, AU and international community. Rwanda truly sets a good example for outbreak response.

    As China’s Ambassador to Rwanda, I’m deeply encouraged by Rwanda’s counter-virus efforts and achievements. We, the Chinese can empathize with Rwandan people’s experiences in this fight. China is the first country hit hard by the pandemic. We made huge sacrifices to push back the virus and know how tough the battle is.

    COVID-19 is a public health crisis and seriously threatens the safety and health of people, poses big challenge to the governance of government, and severely undermines the social economy. Virus knows no borders. No country can shield itself from its impact. It’s a living proof that the world all belongs to a community with a shared future and a common stake.

    China stands with Rwanda and other African countries in this fight. Together, we have demonstrated to the world that solidarity and cooperation can create a positive momentum.

    When China was in the most difficult days, African friends including Rwandan people, assisted us to the best of the capabilities and voiced firm solidarity with China. Now China has achieved major and strategic success in containing the virus and the economy is showing steady recovery.

    China is repaying kindness from Africa friends and working hand in hand to navigate the tough times. China has donated medical supplies to the African Union and all the African countries having diplomatic relations with China. Chinese public health experts have traveled to Africa to save lives.

    The two sides have had frequent exchanges of views online. Going forward, China will continue to provide support to African countries, promote the development of Africa CDC, and enhance cooperation between China and Africa on public health and disease control. I’m sure together, China and Africa can beat COVID-19 and build a public health community with a shared future.

    However, unlike in China and Africa where people closely coordinate and cooperate to fight the epidemic, in some parts of the world there have been unpleasant talks about COVID-19. At this critical juncture, it’s really a time for solidarity, collaboration and mutual support, not a time for finger-pointing or blame-shifting. In fighting the virus, fortunes of every country are closely inter-connected. In sustaining social and economic growth, interests of every country are closely aligned.

    Facts already prove that no country can tackle this disease on its own. We are all in it together. Chinese President Xi Jinping said mankind belongs to a community with a shared future and in this community, solidarity and cooperation are the most powerful weapons to defeat COVID-19. Viruses are the common enemy of humanity.

    Working together in partnership is only the right way forward.

    Guided by this vision, we insist it is absolutely important that the international community should uphold fairness and justice, rather than politicize the public health issue and stigmatize other countries; different countries need act with a greater sense of common purpose and stronger resolve, rather than engage in a smear and scapegoating campaign.

    We propose to improve global governance on public health and support the WHO in playing an important role in the global response to the pandemic.

    We hope to enhance the coordination of social and economic policies to stabilize society, ensure economic recovery and guarantee people’s livelihoods. The global industrial and supply chains should keep open, stable and secure.

    All these are integral parts of a community of public health for mankind. Hand in hand, we will prevail over the epidemic and make concrete contributions to global public health security.

    {{RAO Hongwei
    Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of
    the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Rwanda}}

  • China Firmly Opposes External Interference In Hong Kong and Xinjiang Affairs

    Those who truly care about Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region would ask the question: What is happening there?

    Hong Kong has long been known for its free and open economy, inclusive and diverse culture, professional and efficient management, and law-abiding and safe society. It has been honored by the world as the “oriental pearl” and the “fragrant harbour”.

    Since the handover of Hong Kong from the UK in 1997, under the “One Country, Two Systems” arrangements, which is regulated by the Hong Kong Basic Law and has functioned as the cornerstone to maintain the city’s security, order and long-term development, Hong Kong has kept stability and prosperity for more than 20 years.

    However, since June this year, Hong Kong has been suffering accelerated violent activities.

    What started as protesting to oppose a piece of local legislation has turned into extreme violence, putting Hong Kong citizens’ life and property under severe threat and terror, disrupting public order, and gravely challenging the principled bottom line of “One Country, Two Systems”.

    Due to such violence, from June to September 2019, tourists have dropped by over 3.78 million; profits of tourism, retail, catering and trade fell by about 38.3 billion USD compared with the same period in 2018. Hong Kong has sunk into an economic recession for the first time in 10 years.

    Xinjiang-related issues are not about human rights, ethnicity or religion, but about fighting violence, terrorism and separatism.

    From 1990s to 2016, people in Xinjiang suffered gravely from the above “three evil forces”. Thousands of innocent people were killed and injured in the terrorist incidents happened in Xinjiang.

    To safeguard national sovereignty, territorial integrity and the people’s interests, the Chinese government lawfully fought violent and terrorist crimes and addressed the root causes by advancing de-radicalization, strengthening ethnic solidarity, promoting economic growth and social harmony.

    Thanks to those efforts, no terrorist attack has happened over the past three years. Last year, Xinjiang witnessed an increase of 40% in tourists and 6% in GDP.

    At the same time, people’s religious right and ethnic tradition are also fully respected. Xinjiang boasts 28,000 religious sites and 30,000 clergymen, more than many Muslim countries in terms of ratio.

    The international community speaks highly of China’s Xinjiang policy. Since the end of 2018, over 1,000 representatives have visited Xinjiang, including officials from various countries, regions and international organizations, and people from the press, religious groups, and the academic circle.

    From their point of view, Xinjiang’s experience in counter-terrorism and de-radicalization was worth learning from. In March this year, the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation adopted a resolution which commended China’s efforts in providing care to Muslim citizens.

    In October, at the Third Committee session of the 74th UNGA, more than 60 countries commended in their statements the tremendous human rights progress achieved in Xinjiang.

    However, some foreign forces have been selectively blind and deaf to such solid facts, and publicly supported the extreme violent offenders. The two law documents openly backed violent criminals who rampantly smashed facilities, set fire, assaulted innocent civilians, trampled on the rule of law, and jeopardized social order.

    Their very aims are to sow discord among various regions and groups in China, undermine prosperity and stability in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, and contain China’s growth. But the Chinese people will stand in greater solidarity, and their attempts are bound to fail.

    Hong Kong and Xinjiang are parts of China. It’s very clear that Hong Kong and Xinjiang affairs are purely China’s domestic affairs that should be decided on by the Chinese people and allow no foreign interference.

    We would like to tell these external forces solemnly that the Chinese Government remains unwavering in its resolve to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.

    We urge these forces to immediately stop any form of interference in Hong Kong and Xinjiang affairs, and immediately stop adding fuel to the violence.

    We call on friends around the world to lend a helping hand to Hong Kong and Xinjiang, support the HKSAR Government and the Government of Xinjiang in fighting against violence, extremism and upholding the rule of law, combat and oppose any words or deeds that interfere in Hong Kong and Xinjiang affairs, and do more things that are conducive to the prosperity and stability in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

    {{RAO Hongwei
    Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Rwanda}}