The Rwandan Embassy in Sweden addressed allegations of Rwanda’s involvement in eastern DR Congo’s conflict, criticizing Sweden’s silence on Tutsi persecution and its alignment with Belgium. Rwanda dismisses accusations of supporting the M23 rebels, citing security threats from the FDLR militia. The embassy urges for a neutral international stance and support for African-led mediation efforts to end ongoing ethnic extremism and conflict.
The Rwandan Embassy in Sweden has addressed a diplomatic summons over accusations of its involvement in the conflict in eastern DR Congo. The embassy highlighted Sweden’s failure to acknowledge the severe persecution of Tutsi communities in Congo and criticized its tacit alignment with Belgium, which has historically ties to the region.
The Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs summoned Rwanda’s Ambassador amid claims of Rwandan support for the M23 rebels. Rwanda, however, has continuously denied these allegations, citing security threats from the Democratic Republic of Congo’s collaboration with the FDLR, a militia responsible for significant violence against Rwandans.
Rwanda’s embassy emphasized the necessity of defensive measures against the FDLR, stating that only Rwandan military leaders have the authority to dictate these actions. They asserted the importance of protecting Rwanda’s national security, especially given the proximity of conflict to its borders.
Regarding Sweden’s position, the embassy denounced its perceived double standards, particularly in relation to the ongoing ethnic persecution of the Tutsi communities in Congo. They also criticized Sweden’s lack of condemnation for attacks on Rwandan territory, underscoring the importance of neutrality and impartiality in diplomatic responses.
The embassy further pointed out the inadequate international response to the crisis, especially the cooperation of the Congolese government with the FDLR. They highlighted how MONUSCO, the UN’s peacekeeping mission, operates alongside forces that include both FARDC and FDLR, without any punitive actions against the DRC government.
In conclusion, Rwanda’s embassy called on Sweden and the international community to support African-led mediation efforts aimed at resolving the conflict. They reiterated Rwanda’s aim for security and an end to ethnic extremism, stating that the status quo of conflict and inaction from the global community must cease.
The Rwandan embassy’s response to Sweden’s summons underscores significant concerns about the portrayal of Rwanda’s involvement in the eastern DR Congo conflict. They advocate for a more balanced international perspective that acknowledges the persecution of Tutsi communities and the complexities surrounding the FDLR militia’s impact on regional security. Furthermore, the call for an impartial diplomatic approach emphasizes the need for constructive engagement and African-led solutions to the crisis.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
