Rwanda, Belgium resume diplomatic relations
African Union has termed the resumption of diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Belgium as a demonstration of the value of diplomacy and dialogue in overcoming differences and strengthening cooperation. The post Rwanda, Belgium resume diplomatic relations appeared first on KBC Digital .
Rwanda and Belgium have re-established diplomatic ties, marking a new phase of cooperation between the two nations. The resumption of relations took place in New York, following months of discussions and informal exchanges between the two countries' foreign ministers. Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot emphasized that the move arises from a shared, respectful effort to resolve their differences.
Prevot expressed optimism that renewed relations would foster a mutually beneficial agenda for both countries and their citizens.
The decision comes after Rwanda severed ties with Belgium in March 2025, alleging a hostile stance towards the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In response, Belgium expelled Rwanda's diplomats and terminated bilateral government cooperation agreements. The dispute primarily centered on Belgium's position on the DRC conflict and allegations surrounding Rwanda's role in the crisis.
Despite the tensions, both sides recognize the importance of structured dialogue to address ongoing disagreements, such as the conflict in eastern DRC. Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister affirmed that restoring diplomatic relations does not entail abandoning the country's stance on the conflict but rather establishing channels for open communication.
Belgium also pledged to utilize its regional expertise to facilitate mediation efforts and maintain its support for the Doha and Washington processes aimed at resolving the crisis.
Rwanda welcomed the resumption of diplomatic relations, highlighting the potential for constructive dialogue grounded in mutual respect. The country's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, stressed the need to respect territorial integrity, neutralize the FDLR (Rwandan rebel group), and address the root causes of the conflict in the DRC for sustainable peace in the region.
Both countries announced the reopening of their respective embassies in the near future, with initial missions headed by a chargé d'affaires ad interim and supported by a diplomat or consular officer and a small technical team. The ambassadors will subsequently submit their agréments, allowing for a future diplomatic relationship that may include accreditation to the European Union. Rwanda and Belgium expressed gratitude to Qatar for facilitating the initial meeting between their ministers in Doha in June 2025.
The African Union (AU) welcomed the resumption of diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Belgium, acknowledging the significance of diplomacy in overcoming differences and strengthening cooperation. The AU's Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, commended the move and acknowledged the constructive role played by Qatar in facilitating dialogue.
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