In a significant display of international cooperation, the Burundian government and the Chinese Embassy in Burundi have signed a donation agreement for the construction of an 11-story building. This new structure will serve as the home of the Burundian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation.
The landmark agreement, signed by Burundian Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation Minister Albert Shingiro and Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jiangping, marks a pivotal step in strengthening Burundi-China relations, which have been steadfast since Burundi's independence in 1963.
\"We are pleased to receive this significant donation from the Chinese government for constructing an 11-story building that will host the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, complete with an underground garage,\" stated Minister Shingiro.
The new ministry headquarters will be located in Gitega, Burundi's political capital, and is slated for completion by 2028. This building aims to centralize ministry services, streamlining operations currently spread across multiple locations.
Ambassador Zhao highlighted that the project, initially developed in 2020, had Gitega selected as the site in 2022. \"Feasibility studies were finalized on the sidelines of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing earlier this month,\" Zhao explained.
Both parties are committed to expediting the construction, with Ambassador Zhao emphasizing China's dedication to mutual cooperation in infrastructure, culture, economy, and trade. \"We believe this project will enhance the working conditions of the ministry staff, who are crucial to the country's vision,\" Zhao added.
Reference(s):
China, Burundi sign agreement for government building construction
cgtn.com
