Rwanda Condemns Canadian Sanctions Over DRC Conflict

Rwanda has criticized Canada for imposing sanctions linked to the conflict in the DRC, calling the actions shameful. Canada suspended export permits due to Rwanda’s military involvement, which was condemned by its Foreign Minister as a violation of sovereignty. In response, Rwanda asserts that sanctions will not aid peace efforts, while the international community watches closely as tensions escalate.

On Tuesday, Rwanda condemned Canada for imposing sanctions related to its involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Rwandan officials labeled Ottawa’s actions as shameful, especially in light of claims by United Nations experts that the M23 rebel group, which has made significant territorial advances in eastern DRC, is supported by Rwandan soldiers.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly condemned Rwanda’s military presence in the DRC, describing it as a violation of national sovereignty and international law. Following her statements, Canada decided to suspend export permits for controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda and indicated that it might reconsider its participation in events held in Kigali.

In a strong rebuttal, Rwanda’s foreign ministry criticized Canada for its stance, arguing that sanctions would not resolve the conflict. The statement asserted, “Canada cannot claim to support regional peace efforts while simultaneously blaming Rwanda for all violations.”

These recent sanctions from Canada follow a similar measure by the British government, which suspended most bilateral aid to Rwanda earlier this year due to the M23 offensive. Rwandan officials have repeatedly characterized such measures as punitive. Additionally, the United States recently imposed sanctions on Rwandan Minister for Regional Integration James Kabarebe for his alleged support of the M23 group.

Rwanda’s rebuke of Canada underscores the tensions surrounding the conflict in the DRC and highlights differing perspectives on the support provided to the M23 rebel group. With Canada and other nations imposing sanctions due to these developments, Rwanda’s officials continue to challenge the legitimacy of such actions, calling them punitive and unconstructive. As the situation evolves, the international community is left grappling with the implications of these sanctions on regional stability.

Original Source: newscentral.africa