Canada has suspended trade cooperation with Rwanda due to accusations of Rwanda supporting M23 rebels and violating the DRC’s sovereignty. This decision aligns with similar actions from the UK and US, as Canada condemns human rights abuses and has allocated emergency humanitarian aid for displaced populations in the DRC.
Canada has officially suspended trade and business cooperation with Rwanda, attributing this decision to Kigali’s alleged support for the M23 rebels and violations of the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This action was detailed in a joint statement from Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, and Trade Minister Mary Ng, who condemned Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
In their statement, the Canadian ministers declared, “Canada condemns in the strongest possible terms the March 23 Movement’s (M23) seizure of territory in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), including Goma and Bukavu.” They further criticized the presence of the Rwanda Defence Force in the DRC and its support for the M23, calling this a blatant violation of the DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as the United Nations Charter.
Rwanda’s government responded swiftly, categorizing Canada’s allegations as defamatory and unacceptable. They stated, “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.”
Following a trend set by the United Kingdom and the United States, Canada has taken several punitive steps against Rwanda, including halting the issuance of permits for controlled exports to Rwanda. They have also paused new government-to-government business initiatives and are reviewing Canada’s participation in upcoming international events held in Rwanda.
Furthermore, Global Affairs Canada summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner to formally express Canada’s stance regarding Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict. Canada denounced the widespread human rights abuses occurring in eastern DRC, blaming the M23 and its affiliates for these violations.
The Canadian government noted the alarming reports of violence against civilians and vulnerable communities in the DRC, decrying actions such as unlawful attacks, kidnappings, and sexual violence. Their statement emphasized Canada’s support for the International Criminal Court’s investigation into war crimes, asserting that justice for victims is essential.
In a humanitarian effort, Canada has pledged $15 million in emergency aid to support displaced and vulnerable populations affected by the conflict in the DRC.
Canada’s suspension of trade with Rwanda marks a significant diplomatic response to the latter’s alleged involvement in the DRC conflict, particularly its support for the M23 rebels. This action aligns with similar measures by the UK and US, as international scrutiny of Rwanda’s role intensifies. Furthermore, Canada has expressed a robust commitment to human rights and has allocated funds to assist those affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the DRC.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
