Belgium and Rwanda Mend Ties After DRC Conflict Dispute

Diplomatic relations between Belgium and Rwanda have been re-established, ending an 18-month period of estrangement. The rupture occurred in March 2025, stemming from disagreements over Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the conflict plaguing its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The situation escalated when both countries expelled each other’s diplomats. The dispute centers on the M23 rebels, who control substantial territory in the North and South Kivu provinces of eastern DRC. Western governments and the United Nations accuse Rwanda of backing the M23 group, an allegation Kigali vehemently denies. Rwanda maintains it is acting defensively against a Hutu militia collaborating with the Congolese army.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot and his Rwandan counterpart, Olivier Nduhungirehe, announced the resumption of ties on the social media platform X. Photos showed the ministers meeting in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

In a joint statement, the two nations indicated that recent months had seen “constructive” dialogue addressing “differences and misunderstandings.” They also expressed gratitude to Qatar for facilitating an initial meeting in June 2025. Both countries plan to reopen their respective embassies shortly.

Minister Prevot described the restoration of relations as a crucial step in a world facing rising global tensions. He emphasized that this move does not signify a compromise on Belgium’s stance but rather establishes “structured channels for dialogue,” affirming Belgium’s continued commitment to defending the DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/world/belgium-rwanda-resume-diplomatic-relations-after-drc-conflict-dispute-5605428