The Government of Rwanda participated in the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, held in Beijing from 17th to 19th September 2025, under the theme “Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development”. This year's forum was attended by over 100 countries, regions, and international organizations, including developed countries, emerging major powers, small and medium-sized states, as well as representatives from conflict-affected regions.

The Rwandan delegation was led by Hon. Juvenal Marizamunda, Minister of Defence, who held a bilateral meeting with his counterpart, Chinese Minister of Defence Hon. Admiral Dong Jun. During the meeting, the two countries signed an Agreement on Defence Cooperation, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations.

The Minister also participated in a panel discussion in which he emphasized the urgency of building peace in Africa through dialogue, regional cooperation, and African-led solutions. Speaking in a plenary session titled: “Building regional peace through dialogue and consultation”, Marizamunda shared Rwanda’s perspective on addressing the continent’s persistent conflicts.

He stressed that many of Africa’s challenges are rooted in colonial legacies, particularly the arbitrary borders drawn during the 1885 Berlin Conference, which continue to fuel disputes.

Hon Marizamunda also pointed to weak governance and lack of trust between states and citizens as key drivers of instability, often exploited by terrorists and armed groups.

“Africa has become the epicentre of international terrorism,” he warned, adding that military responses alone are insufficient. Lasting peace depends on inclusive governance, justice, equitable opportunities, and youth empowerment”.