Rwandan Embassy Responds to Sweden’s Concerns Over DR Congo Crisis
The Rwandan Embassy in Stockholm reacts to Sweden’s summons over allegations of Rwanda’s support for M23 rebels in the DR Congo conflict. It emphasizes its security concerns regarding the FDLR and criticizes Sweden’s stance on ethnic persecution of Tutsi communities. The embassy calls out perceived double standards in international responses and champions African-led mediation for crisis resolution.
The Embassy of Rwanda in Stockholm has addressed a summons from Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs regarding claims of Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo. The embassy criticized Sweden for its silence on the plight of Congolese Tutsi communities and noted that Sweden’s position aligns with Belgium, Rwanda’s former colonial power.
The Swedish government summoned Rwanda’s Ambassador in relation to accusations that Rwanda supports the M23 rebels amidst the crisis. In response, Rwanda has vehemently denied these allegations, highlighting its security concerns stemming from the FDLR, a militia responsible for multiple attacks on Rwandan territory and linked to the threats in eastern DR Congo.
The embassy emphasized Rwanda’s right to safeguard its national security, asserting that only the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) and the Commander-in-Chief can decide on necessary defensive measures, especially with threats located just two kilometers from Rwanda’s border. It reiterated Rwanda’s intention not to be coerced or intimidated regarding its security policies.
Furthermore, the embassy expressed concern over Sweden’s perceived double standards, particularly regarding the ethnic persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities endorsed by the Congolese government. It pointed out the lack of Sweden’s condemnation of the violence faced by these communities, juxtaposed with Sweden’s alignment with Belgium in its response to the ongoing crisis.
The embassy denounced the oversimplification of the DR Congo crisis, stating, “The international community has oversimplified DR Congo crisis to the narrative ‘Rwanda backs M23.’” It highlighted that the M23 movement addresses legitimate grievances of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, particularly the Tutsi community, following the government’s failure to adhere to peace agreements.
In addressing the broader international response, the embassy noted the involvement of the United Nations and European actors in supporting a coalition that includes the FARDC, FDLR, and foreign mercenaries. Despite the United Nations acknowledging the FARDC’s collaboration with the FDLR, no punitive actions have been taken against the Congolese government.
Rwanda’s embassy also pointed out Sweden’s inaction in condemning past attacks on Rwanda, such as the shelling by the FDLR in June 2022. Additionally, it highlighted Rwanda’s humanitarian efforts in supporting refugees, including FARDC soldiers and FDLR elements, while providing safe passage to European mercenaries in eastern DR Congo.
Lastly, the embassy urged Sweden to endorse the African-led mediation efforts and asserted Rwanda’s commitment to maintaining a secure border while combating ethnic extremism. The embassy concluded by stating that the cycles of conflict fueled by the Congolese government’s failures must not be ignored any longer.
The Rwandan Embassy in Sweden has firmly addressed accusations of Rwanda’s involvement in the DR Congo crisis, emphasizing its security concerns regarding the FDLR. It criticized the international community’s response and Sweden’s perceived double standards regarding the plight of Congolese Tutsi communities. Furthermore, Rwanda remains committed to ensuring national security while advocating for support of African-led mediation efforts to resolve the conflict. In summary, Rwanda’s position is centered on preventing security threats from the FDLR and responding assertively to international narratives that misrepresent its role in the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
