Türkiye has offered to assist in resolving the dispute between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with President Erdogan emphasizing the necessity of stability in the Great Lakes Region. Kagame’s visit to Türkiye marks a significant step in deepening relations, as both nations discuss enhanced cooperation and economic collaboration, particularly in light of the ongoing M23 insurgency and Rwanda’s role in promoting regional peace.
Türkiye has expressed its readiness to assist in resolving the ongoing dispute between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as affirmed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a press conference alongside Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Ankara. Erdogan highlighted the importance of stability in the Great Lakes Region and emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to providing necessary support if both parties seek it.
Erdogan pointed out that the M23 rebels have been active in eastern Congo since 2022, with accusations directed towards Rwanda for allegedly supporting these insurgents, claims that Rwanda denies. He reiterated Türkiye’s support for African-led solutions to African issues, recognizing Rwanda’s efforts for stability and security in the region.
The visit of President Kagame marked a significant deepening of diplomatic ties between Türkiye and Rwanda, with both nations having established embassies in the early 2010s. Erdogan commended Rwanda as a model of political stability and economic progress, noting the nearly $500 million in investments between the two nations.
Erdogan also expressed his intention to further enhance trade relations and cooperation across various sectors, citing Turkish companies’ leading role in Rwandan foreign trade as indicative of promising economic prospects. The Turkish leadership remains committed to increasing investment participation in Rwanda’s development projects.
Kagame highlighted the mutual dedication to explore opportunities for collaboration and praised Türkiye’s contributions to infrastructure development and investment. Both leaders recognized the need for collective solutions to regional conflicts and commended Türkiye’s mediation efforts in past disputes, including those between Somalia and Ethiopia.
Kagame encouraged African nations to independently address instability rather than relying on external agencies, acknowledging Türkiye’s resilience following the devastating earthquakes earlier in 2023. He also extended condolences regarding a recent tragic fire incident in Türkiye, showcasing the cooperative and supportive spirit between the two nations.
The article discusses Türkiye’s intervention strategy in addressing conflicts in Africa, specifically focusing on the dispute between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Türkiye’s President Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s dedication to supporting stability in the Great Lakes Region, emphasizing collaboration and the importance of an African-centric approach to resolving conflicts. The meeting between Erdogan and Kagame symbolizes a strengthening of ties between Türkiye and Rwanda, aiming for mutual economic and political benefits. The backdrop of the M23 insurgency reflects ongoing regional tensions that require diplomatic engagement, and Türkiye’s proactive stance illustrates its growing influence in African affairs.
In summary, Türkiye is poised to support resolution efforts for the Rwanda-DRC dispute, demonstrating a commitment to regional stability and cooperation. Through enhanced bilateral relations, both nations aim to capitalize on investment opportunities while championing African-led solutions to conflicts. The collaborative approach, highlighted by Erdogan and Kagame, showcases the potential for increased partnership and development in the region, with implications for broader geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
