OMM Redaksiyası
Belgium and Rwanda have resumed diplomatic relations after an 18-month break linked to a dispute over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot announced on Tuesday.
“In a world marked by growing tensions, this is an important signal here in New York, the UN’s host city, which embodies multilateralism and dialogue beyond our differences,” Prevot wrote on “X”, according to the announcement.
The minister said he believed the two countries could develop a positive agenda benefiting their citizens and build on strong interpersonal ties. He described the restoration of relations as the outcome of “frank discussions” with his Rwandan counterpart and a mutual, respectful effort.
Disagreements over eastern DR Congo remain
Prevot stressed that restoring diplomatic ties did not mean Belgium was abandoning its position on issues that remain unresolved. The two sides agreed on the importance of maintaining systematic dialogue, including over the conflict in eastern DR Congo.
“I will continue to defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the DRC,” Prevot said, adding that Belgium would seek to use its regional expertise to support mediation efforts.
Brussels will also continue to call for all parties to comply fully with commitments made under the Doha and Washington processes, he said.
Embassies to reopen
A joint statement by Prevot and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe confirmed the resumption of diplomatic relations. The two countries agreed to reopen their embassies in the near future.
