Rwanda Criticizes Canada for Statements on DRC Conflict

Rwanda criticized Canada for its statement on the DRC conflict, stating it was defamatory. The Canadian government accused Rwanda of supporting armed groups in the DRC and imposed sanctions. The Rwandan government argued that Canada’s silence on DRC’s government actions undermines peace efforts and will not help resolve the conflict.

On March 4, 2023, the Rwandan government issued a formal critique of a statement made by Global Affairs Canada concerning the conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Rwandan officials described the comments as defamatory, shameful, and unacceptable. The Canadian statement, dated March 3, posited the presence of the Rwanda Defence Force in the DRC and alleged its support for the M23 militia while announcing sanctions against Rwanda.

The Rwandan government asserted that Canada’s accusations undermine regional peace efforts, as the statement shifts blame toward Rwanda without addressing the actions of the DRC government. “Canada cannot claim to welcome the efforts of regional actors in the peace process when it places the blame for all kinds of violations on Rwanda,” stated the Rwandan officials. They further criticized Canada’s failure to condemn the DRC government’s actions against its civilian population, particularly in South Kivu.

In light of these accusations, Canada suspended the issuance of export permits for controlled goods to Rwanda and halted new governmental and business collaborations. Additionally, it will reevaluate its participation in forthcoming international events hosted in Rwanda. In response, the Rwandan government maintained its position that such measures would not resolve the ongoing conflict, reiterating its commitment to regional mediation efforts while safeguarding national security.

In summary, the Rwandan government has vocally opposed Canada’s recent statements regarding the DRC crisis, emphasizing that blaming Rwanda without addressing DRC government’s actions is counterproductive. The move by Canada to impose sanctions has been met with a strong rebuke, as Rwanda insists on collaborative regional solutions to ensure stability.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw