Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Shll Zhan (L) addressing members of the Chinese community Wednesday at Rulindo Chinese  cemetery. The New Times / G. Mugoya.

Members of the Chinese community in Rwanda, Wednesday, paid tribute to their fellow nationals who died in Rwanda.

The ceremony is part of this year’s Chinese Qingming Festival, which falls on April 5, a time when most Chinese traditionally commemorate their lost relatives and loved ones.

Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Shu Zhan, led a team to Rulindo District at a cemetery where 10 Chinese who were involved in various works, including construction and health services were buried.

One of those remembered was reportedly killed in 1997 by insurgents, while others died under different circumstances.

“The people we are remembering today are a great inspiration because they lost their lives at a time when they were contributing to the development of this country,” Zhan said, shortly after laying a wreath on the tombs.

Among others, he pointed out Chen Jian who he said died when working with Chin Road and Bridge Cooperation which was constructing Gitarama-Kibuye road.

He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to bilateral cooperation between Rwanda and China.

In his speech, the Director of Asian and Oceania in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eric Rubayita, appreciated the Chinese government’s cooperation and pointed out its role in the country’s social economic development.

“We will continue commemorating this day and strengthen the relationship between the two countries.”