The Belgian and Rwandan governments have announced the restoration of diplomatic relations, following several months of strained ties over the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. According to a joint statement by the foreign ministers of both countries, the decision was made after a series of informal meetings and exchanges. These talks allowed for addressing several differences and misunderstandings in a constructive spirit.
As part of the agreement, both countries plan to reopen their embassies in Brussels and Kigali. Initially, each mission will be led by an interim chargé d'affaires, supported by a diplomat or consular agent and a small technical team. Later, ambassadorial appointments will be submitted for approval, paving the way for a future diplomatic move. The Rwandan ambassador to Belgium will also be accredited to the European Union.
The decision to restore diplomatic relations follows a period of heightened tensions between the two countries. In March 2025, Belgium announced reciprocal measures after Rwanda severed diplomatic ties and expelled Belgian diplomats within 48 hours. The Rwandan government justified the move by accusing Belgium of maintaining "neocolonial illusions" and having a "historically violent" role in the region.
Rwanda also accused Belgium of systematically acting against its interests in the context of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo and of manipulating international opinion to create unjustified hostility. Furthermore, Kigali criticized Belgium for hosting groups it considered to be propagators of genocidal ideology. In response, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot denounced the decision as "disproportionate".
The Belgian government expressed regret that when in disagreement with Rwanda, the latter preferred not to engage in dialogue. In retaliation, Belgium announced reciprocal measures, including the convocation of the Rwandan chargé d'affaires in Brussels, the declaration of Rwandan diplomats as persona non grata, and the denunciation of government cooperation agreements.
The diplomatic rift was a new escalation in tensions between Brussels and Kigali, with Belgium accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebellion in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, an accusation Kigali firmly rejects. The restoration of diplomatic relations signals a renewed commitment to dialogue and cooperation between the two countries.
The agreement also reflects a mutual engagement to uphold the principles of non-interference, mutual respect, and constructive engagement, which will guide their future bilateral relations. Both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining open, frank, and transparent dialogue, recognizing its essential role in addressing bilateral differences and international issues.
Key points
- The decision to restore diplomatic relations between Belgium and Rwanda was made after a series of informal meetings and exchanges between the two countries' foreign ministers.
- The initial phase of re-establishing diplomatic relations will involve the appointment of interim chargé d'affaires and small technical teams.
- The restored relations aim to promote dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect between Belgium and Rwanda.
