Rwanda and Belgium Kick Out Each Other’s Diplomats Over Congo Dispute, Reports Reuters
Rwanda and Belgium have decided to send each other’s diplomats home, as their relationship worsens over disagreements about the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to Reuters, Rwanda announced it is cutting ties with Belgium and gave Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave the country. Rwanda accused Belgium of spreading false information and creating a bad image of Rwanda.
Belgium’s Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, called Rwanda’s decision “too harsh” and said it shows Rwanda doesn’t want to talk when there are disagreements. Belgium plans to respond by sending Rwandan diplomats home too.
The conflict in eastern Congo has caused a lot of tension. African leaders are trying to stop the fighting in the region, where Rwanda is accused of supporting a rebel group called M23. This group has been involved in violent attacks, making the situation in Congo even worse.
This diplomatic fight shows how strained the relationship between Rwanda and Belgium has become. Reuters reports that the two countries have a complicated history, and this latest move reflects their deep disagreements over the Congo conflict.
Rwanda’s decision to expel Belgian diplomats is a strong reaction to what it sees as unfair criticism. On the other hand, Belgium’s response shows it is frustrated with Rwanda’s refusal to have meaningful discussions.
Kicking out diplomats is a serious step, and it usually means communication between countries has broken down. As the fighting in Congo continues, many are watching to see how this dispute will affect efforts to bring peace to the region.
Credit: This story is based on reporting by Reuters.