Rwanda has criticized Germany for “politicizing development cooperation” and accused it of undermining African-led peace initiatives regarding the DRC conflict. Moreover, Rwanda summoned Canada’s High Commissioner over accusations linking the nation to violence while dismissing Rwanda’s security concerns, particularly concerning attacks against Congolese Tutsi communities.
The Rwandan government has issued strong critiques against Germany and Canada regarding their recent positions on the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Rwanda accuses these nations of exhibiting bias and neglecting its legitimate security concerns, particularly those arising from the ongoing conflict in the DRC. This statement was released by Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Kigali specifically condemned Germany for what it describes as the “politicization of development cooperation,” suggesting that Berlin’s actions undermine African-led peace initiatives. Rwanda expressed frustration that the German government has not held the DRC accountable for its violations, which they believe exacerbate the situation and extend the conflict’s duration. According to the Rwandan Ministry, “Germany contradicts its own claims of supporting the African-led process to resolve the conflict in eastern DRC by letting the DRC off the hook for numerous violations.”
In addition to criticism of Germany, Rwanda has summoned Canada’s High Commissioner following Ottawa’s remarks that implied blame on Kigali for violence in the DRC. Rwanda rebuked these accusations, insisting that Canada misunderstood the situation by attributing violence to Rwanda while overlooking the actions of the DRC’s armed forces and their allied militias. The Rwandan Ministry stated, “Canada is voluntarily accusing Rwanda of atrocities committed in eastern DRC, while those crimes are committed in broad daylight by the FARDC and DRC government militias.”
Furthermore, Rwanda voiced its concerns over the atrocities faced by Congolese Tutsi communities in regions such as North and South Kivu and Ituri, which it attributes to the FDLR and other DRC-aligned forces. Despite the escalating diplomatic tensions resulting from increased fighting in the DRC and accusations from both sides, Rwanda remains determined to safeguard its national security while continuing to engage in regional peace efforts.
In summary, Rwanda’s critical stance towards Germany and Canada reflects its deepening frustration with international responses to the conflict in the DRC. The Rwandan government stresses the significance of addressing its security concerns and attributes the ongoing violence to factors overlooked by these countries. Furthermore, the nation remains focused on protecting its national interests while contributing to regional peace initiatives amidst rising tensions and accusations from both sides in the conflict.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
