EU Reevaluates Raw Materials Deal with Rwanda Amid DRC Conflict

The EU is reevaluating its critical raw materials agreement with Rwanda amidst the conflict in the DRC, particularly after the M23 rebels’ territorial advances. While immediate sanctions have not been imposed, the situation remains under scrutiny. Belgium and the European Parliament are calling for the agreement’s suspension, highlighting concerns over Rwanda’s involvement in mineral extraction from the DRC. High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized the importance of territorial integrity and international law in her statements.

The European Union is set to reassess its critical raw materials agreement with Rwanda due to the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). EU foreign ministers refrained from imposing immediate sanctions on Rwanda for its alleged involvement but stated that sanctions would be considered based on the evolving situation. This review follows the recent territorial gains made by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels in North Kivu, which have drawn international condemnation.

Belgium initiated discussions for the suspension of this agreement, bolstered by support from the European Parliament. High Representative Kaja Kallas indicated that the EU has urged Rwanda to withdraw military forces and that consultations regarding defense and security have been halted. “The situation is very grave and it’s on the brink of regional conflict,” Kallas remarked, asserting that the territorial integrity of both the DRC and Ukraine is imperative under the UN charter.

The Memorandum of Understanding, signed in February of the previous year, aligns with the EU’s strategies to secure materials essential for microchips and electric vehicles, as part of the Global Gateway initiative. This initiative includes a €300-billion infrastructure plan aimed at diminishing reliance on China while securing over €900 million specifically for Rwanda.

This memorandum highlights Rwanda as a significant player in global tantalum production and as a source of various minerals, including tin and gold. Experts have raised concerns that Rwanda’s extraction capabilities are insufficient compared to its exports, suggesting a reliance on DRC’s mining resources. Guillaume de Brier from the International Peace Information Service reiterated this assertion, which has also been supported by statements from the U.S. State Department.

This shift in the EU’s stance towards Rwanda arrives amidst its previous support for the Rwandan government and its military operations in Africa, particularly addressing the threats posed by insurgents in Mozambique. With an additional funding of €20 million provided to Rwandan forces last November, the EU’s partnerships in the region are complex and dynamic.

In summary, the EU is reviewing its raw materials agreement with Rwanda in light of the DRC conflict, considering possible sanctions while stopping short of immediate measures. This follows the territorial advances of the M23 rebels and international pressure to reassess relations. Kaja Kallas’s remarks underscore the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the need for the respect of territorial integrity in conflict-affected regions. This development signals a potential shift in the EU’s strategy towards regional security and resource management.

Original Source: www.euronews.com