Canada has suspended trade cooperation with Rwanda over its support for M23 rebels in the DRC, leading to potential economic consequences for Rwanda. Canada’s ministers condemned Rwanda’s actions and highlighted human rights abuses in the region. This decision echoes similar responses from the US and UK, raising international scrutiny of Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict.
Canada has announced the suspension of trade and business cooperation with Rwanda, citing Kigali’s alleged support for the M23 rebels and violations of the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This decision was communicated through a joint statement by Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, and Trade Minister Mary Ng, who condemned Rwanda’s involvement in the escalating conflict in eastern DRC.
The March 23 Movement’s (M23) seizure of DRC territory, including key areas such as Goma and Bukavu, was condemned in the statement. Canadian officials emphasized that the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC and their backing of the M23 are serious breaches of the DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as violations of the United Nations Charter.
In response, Rwanda rejected Canada’s allegations, asserting that such accusations are defamatory and unacceptable. The Rwandan government indicated its intention to seek clarification from the Canadian authorities regarding these claims, expressing concern over the implications of the statement.
Following Canada’s lead, both the United Kingdom and the United States have taken similar punitive actions, demanding that Rwanda withdraw its military presence from eastern DRC and cease its support for the M23 rebels. As international scrutiny intensifies, Rwanda now faces increasing diplomatic and economic repercussions due to its role in the DRC conflict.
To enforce these measures, Canada has suspended the issuance of permits for the export of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda, halted new government-to-government business initiatives, and paused support for private sector trade development. Additionally, Canada is reviewing its participation in international events in Rwanda and assessing any proposals Rwandan authorities make for hosting future global summits.
Canada has also summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner to formally express its position regarding Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict. Moreover, Canada’s condemnation extends to the widespread human rights abuses occurring in eastern DRC, for which M23 and its supporters are held accountable.
In summary, Canada has taken a strong stance against Rwanda by suspending trade cooperation in light of its support for the M23 rebels, which is deemed a violation of the DRC’s sovereignty. The situation reflects heightened international scrutiny of Rwanda’s actions, leading to potential diplomatic and economic consequences. Canada remains committed to addressing human rights abuses in the region and has pledged significant humanitarian aid to support affected populations.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
