Belgium and Rwanda have resumed diplomatic relations 18 months after severing ties over disagreements linked to the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The announcement came during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, where Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot and Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe confirmed the breakthrough following months of discussions.
Key developments:
- Both countries plan to reopen their respective embassies.
- Qatar facilitated an initial meeting between the two sides in June 2025.
- The ministers agreed to maintain structured dialogue, including on areas of continuing disagreement.
In a statement, Prévot described the move as an important signal in a world of growing tensions, emphasising that restoring diplomatic relations does not alter Belgium’s support for the DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
He also said Belgium would continue to support regional mediation efforts and encourage implementation of commitments made through the Doha and Washington peace processes.
The diplomatic dispute was linked to the conflict in eastern DRC, where the AFC/M23 rebel movement has captured significant territory in North and South Kivu provinces. The United Nations and several Western governments have accused Rwanda of supporting M23, allegations that Kigali denies. Rwanda says its security concerns are linked to the presence of the FDLR militia, which it accuses of operating alongside Congolese forces.
Relations deteriorated further in March 2025, when Rwanda cut diplomatic ties with Belgium and both countries expelled diplomats. The disagreement followed Belgium’s position on the conflict, including support for European measures targeting individuals linked to the violence in eastern DRC.
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