Canada Ends Trade Ties with Rwanda Over Support for M23 Rebels

Canada has stopped trade and business cooperation with Rwanda, blaming Kigali for helping M23 rebels and violating the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) sovereignty. This move adds pressure on Rwanda as more countries take action against its role in the conflict in eastern DRC.

The announcement came from three Canadian ministers: Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, and Trade Minister Mary Ng. They strongly condemned Rwanda’s support for M23 and the presence of Rwandan troops in DRC.

“Canada condemns M23’s occupation of areas in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu,” their statement said. “We also condemn Rwanda’s military involvement and support for M23, which violates DRC’s territorial integrity and the UN Charter.”

Rwanda Rejects Accusations

Rwanda quickly dismissed Canada’s claims, calling them false and unfair. The Rwandan government responded with a statement saying, “Rwanda takes note of Canada’s statement but finds the accusations unacceptable. We will seek clarification from Canada.”

Despite Rwanda’s denial, other countries, including the UK and US, have also taken similar actions, demanding that Rwanda withdraw its troops from eastern DRC and stop supporting the rebels.

Canada’s Sanctions Against Rwanda

To punish Rwanda, Canada has put in place several measures:

1. Stopping the approval of permits for exporting controlled goods and technology to Rwanda.

2. Halting government-to-government business projects and support for private sector trade with Rwanda.

3. Reviewing Canada’s involvement in international events held in Rwanda and reconsidering Rwanda’s bids to host global meetings.

4. Summoning the Rwandan High Commissioner to formally communicate Canada’s disapproval of Rwanda’s actions.

   
   

Canada has also condemned serious human rights abuses happening in eastern DRC. The government blames M23 rebels and their supporters for causing immense suffering.

“Canada denounces the widespread crimes in eastern DRC, including attacks on civilians, displaced people, humanitarian workers, UN peacekeepers, and regional forces. We are particularly alarmed by reports of sexual violence against women and girls,” the statement read.

Canada reaffirmed its support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) as it investigates war crimes in the region. The ministers stressed that those responsible must be held accountable.

Humanitarian Aid to DRC

To assist people affected by the conflict, Canada has announced $15 million in emergency humanitarian aid. This money will help displaced and vulnerable communities in the DRC as they continue to suffer from the ongoing violence.

With Canada joining other countries in taking action, Rwanda is facing more diplomatic and economic consequences. As more nations demand accountability, Kigali’s involvement in the DRC conflict is under greater scrutiny.

This suspension of trade relations marks a significant step in holding Rwanda responsible for fueling instability in the region. The pressure on Kigali is increasing, and the world is watching how Rwanda will respond to these serious allegations.