Rwanda has all diplomatic ties with Belgium after tensions have been exacerbated between the two countries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Rwandan Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Monday ordering all Belgian diplomats to leave Rwanda within 48 hours. The Ministry cited the need to “preserve” Rwanda’s national interests, accused Belgium of engaging in regional conflicts against Rwanda at various international forums and systematically mobilized Rwanda.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot called Rwanda’s decision “disproportionate”, saying Belgium would repay by ending all government cooperation agreements with Rwanda. He further pointed out that Rwandan diplomats will no longer be popular in Belgium.
Tensions between the two countries stem from the recent support of Rwanda’s M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who recently captured Goma and Bukaf, resulting in widespread death and displacement. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Belgium criticized Rwanda for supporting the rebels, accusing Rwanda of seeking control of land in resource-rich areas. M23 fighters claim to be defending the tutsis ethnic rights in the region.
In response to the conflict, Rwanda suspended its bilateral aid program for 2024-2029 with Belgium last month, accusing Belgium of undermining its access to development financing. In turn, Belgium continues to advocate for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The diplomatic breakdown between Rwanda and Belgium coincides with the EU’s announcement of sanctions against nine individuals, including five Rwandans, linked to violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) confirmed peace talks with the M23 rebels planned to be held in Angola.
