Rwanda and Belgium Mend Ties After 18-Month Diplomatic Freeze

After an 18-month diplomatic freeze, Rwanda and Belgium are set to resume full diplomatic relations. The rupture, which began in March 2025, was triggered by significant disagreements concerning the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Recent engagements between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, and Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maxime Prévot, on September 22 led to this agreement. Both nations have committed to reopening their respective embassies in the near future, initially operating with a chargé d’affaires ad interim and a small support team.

The decision follows a period of heightened tensions. Belgium was among several nations accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC, allegations that Kigali has consistently denied. Rwanda, in turn, criticized Belgium for alleged interference in regional affairs and for imposing measures against Kigali.

Despite the formal breakdown, informal channels of communication remained open. The joint statement indicated that a series of constructive meetings between the foreign ministers helped address misunderstandings. Qatar was also thanked for facilitating an initial meeting in Doha in June 2025.

While the restoration of ties reopens formal diplomatic channels for dialogue on their differing perspectives regarding the DRC conflict and other international matters, it does not necessarily signify the resolution of all underlying disagreements. The move is seen as a positive step towards re-establishing consistent diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

Source: Nile Post