Canada has suspended trade and cooperation with Rwanda, accusing it of aiding M23 rebels in the DRC conflict. This decision follows similar actions taken by the UK and US, prompting Rwanda to reject the accusations. Canada also condemned human rights abuses in the DRC and announced emergency aid for displaced populations.
The Canadian government has taken decisive action by suspending all trade and business cooperation with Rwanda, accusing the nation of supporting M23 rebels and trampling upon the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This announcement was collaboratively made by Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, and Trade Minister Mary Ng, who jointly condemned Rwanda’s purported role in exacerbating the conflict in eastern DRC.
In a formal statement released on Monday night, the ministers expressed strong condemnation regarding the activities of the March 23 Movement (M23), particularly noting their seizure of territory such as Goma and Bukavu. Furthermore, they denounced the involvement of the Rwanda Defence Force in these conflicts, labeling these actions as severe violations of DRC’s territorial sovereignty as well as the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter.
Rwanda promptly rejected the allegations from Canada, labeling them as defamatory and unacceptable. Through an official statement from Kigali, the Rwandan government expressed its discontent with the Canadian accusations, asserting, “Rwanda takes note of the statement by Global Affairs Canada on the situation in eastern DRC and finds the defamatory attribution to Rwanda of alleged atrocities unacceptable. We will be seeking clarification on this from the Canadian government.”
This suspension by Canada aligns with similar actions taken by the United Kingdom and the United States, both of which have urged Rwanda to withdraw its military presence from eastern DRC and cease its support for the M23 rebels. Amid increasing international scrutiny, Rwanda is now poised to face escalating diplomatic and economic repercussions due to its involvement in the ongoing conflict in DRC.
As part of its response, Canada has enacted several measures including the cessation of permits for exporting controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda, pausing new government-to-government initiatives, and halting support for private sector trade development with Rwanda. Additionally, Canada is currently reviewing its participation in international events set to occur in Rwanda and is evaluating proposals for hosting future global summits.
Global Affairs Canada has also summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner to formally articulate Canada’s opposition to Rwanda’s engagement in the DRC conflict. The Canadian government condemned the significant human rights abuses in eastern DRC, holding the M23 and its supporters accountable.
“Canada denounces the widespread atrocities in eastern DRC, including allegations of unlawful attacks on civilians, internally displaced persons, humanitarian actors, and both UN and regional peacekeepers,” stated the government. There are particular concerns regarding reports of sexual violence against women and girls arising from the conflict.
In summary, Canada has suspended trade relations with Rwanda due to its alleged support for M23 rebels in the DRC. The Canadian government condemned Rwanda’s actions as violations of sovereignty and has called for accountability regarding human rights abuses in the region. With growing international pressure, Rwanda faces increasing diplomatic and economic repercussions as countries scrutinize its involvement in the conflict. Canada will also provide humanitarian aid to assist those affected in the DRC.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
