Rwanda condemned Canada for sanctions related to its involvement in the DRC conflict, labeling the actions as shameful. The sanctions followed Canadian criticism of Rwanda’s military support for the M23 rebel group. Rwanda’s foreign ministry rejected the sanctions, asserting they hinder peace efforts and highlighting tensions over international relations and regional stability.
Rwanda has condemned Canada for imposing sanctions related to its role in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), branding Ottawa’s actions as shameful. This condemnation follows reports from United Nations experts indicating that thousands of Rwandan soldiers are supporting the M23 rebel group, which has made significant territorial advances in eastern DRC recently.
In a statement on Monday, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly criticized Rwanda’s military involvement in DRC and announced sanctions, including the suspension of export permits for controlled goods to Rwanda. Joly characterized Rwanda’s engagement as a violation of DRC’s sovereignty and the United Nations Charter, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to regional peace.
In response, Rwanda’s foreign ministry expressed strong disapproval of Canada’s statements, asserting that such sanctions do not contribute to a resolution and labeling Canada’s stance as hypocritical. The ministry contended, “Canada cannot claim to support regional peace efforts while simultaneously blaming Rwanda for all violations.”
These Canadian sanctions arrive in the wake of the British government’s February suspension of most bilateral aid to Rwanda due to concerns over the M23 conflict. Rwanda has characterized these measures as punitive and detrimental to its stability.
In summary, Rwanda has denounced Canada’s imposition of sanctions over its involvement in the DRC conflict, calling the actions shameful and counterproductive. Canadian officials argue that the sanctions are a necessary response to violations of sovereignty, while Rwanda counters that such measures undermine peace efforts. The ongoing international scrutiny continues to affect Rwanda’s diplomatic relations and regional stability.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
