Rwanda has condemned Canada’s sanctions related to the DRC conflict, labeling them as shameful. Canadian officials criticized Rwanda’s military involvement with the M23 rebel group, leading to trade restrictions. Rwanda responded by rejecting the sanctions as punitive and inconsistent with peace efforts, amid widespread international scrutiny of its actions.
Rwanda has publicly criticized Canada for imposing sanctions due to its alleged involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict. Rwanda labeled these actions by Canada as “shameful,” responding to accusations that it supports the M23 rebel group, which has recently enhanced its control in eastern DRC and is reportedly aided by Rwandan military forces as indicated by UN experts.
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly expressed strong disapproval of Rwanda’s military actions in the DRC. She announced the suspension of export permits for controlled goods and technology to Rwanda, stating that such involvement violates the DRC’s sovereignty and the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter. Canada also indicated it might reconsider its participation in events held in Kigali.
In a statement, Rwanda’s foreign ministry denounced Canada’s stance, arguing that imposing sanctions would not resolve the conflict. They asserted, “Canada cannot claim to support regional peace efforts while simultaneously blaming Rwanda for all violations.” This indicated Rwanda’s frustration with external criticisms and measures taken against it.
These Canadian sanctions followed a trend, as the British government suspended most bilateral aid to Rwanda earlier this year amid the M23 activities. Rwanda has consistently labeled such measures as punitive. Additionally, the United States imposed sanctions on Rwandan Minister for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, for his alleged role in aiding the M23 group.
Rwanda condemned Canada’s sanctions over the DRC conflict, calling them unjust and counterproductive. Canada’s Foreign Minister criticized Rwanda’s military involvement, resulting in a suspension of certain exports. Rwanda, in response, rejected these allegations, highlighting the inconsistency of Canada’s stance toward peace in the region. This growing tension between Rwanda and Canada illustrates the complexities surrounding the DRC conflict and international diplomacy.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
