Rwanda and Belgium have announced the restoration of diplomatic relations, effective September 22, 2026. The decision was made after a meeting between Rwandan and Belgian officials, who agreed to re-establish embassies and continue talks on issues of mutual interest. The move comes 18 months after Rwanda suspended diplomatic relations with Belgium, citing the country's "colonial mentality" and alleged interference in its internal affairs.
The conflict between Rwanda and Belgium began in March 2025, when Rwanda expelled Belgian diplomats and suspended diplomatic relations. Rwanda accused Belgium of taking sides in the conflict between Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, and of spreading false information to undermine Rwanda's interests. However, both countries have now agreed to put aside their differences and work towards improving relations.
According to Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, the restoration of diplomatic relations is a result of "frank and open" talks with his Rwandan counterpart. Prevot stated that the two countries are committed to continuing talks on issues such as the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and to working together on economic and development issues.
The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has been a major point of contention between Rwanda and Belgium. Rwanda has accused Belgium of not doing enough to support its efforts to stabilize the region, while Belgium has expressed concerns about Rwanda's alleged support for rebel groups in the Congo. However, both countries have now agreed to work together to find a solution to the conflict.
Prevot emphasized that the restoration of diplomatic relations does not mean that Belgium has changed its position on the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. He stated that Belgium remains committed to supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and to promoting peace and stability in the region.
The two countries have agreed to establish a new framework for cooperation, based on mutual respect and a commitment to finding solutions to common challenges. Prevot stated that he is hopeful that the restored relations will lead to increased economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
The restoration of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium has been welcomed by both countries. The move is seen as a positive step towards improving relations between the two countries, and towards promoting peace and stability in the region.
Key points
- The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains a major challenge for Rwanda and Belgium to address.
- The two countries have agreed to continue talks on issues of mutual interest, including economic cooperation and development.
- The restoration of diplomatic relations is seen as a positive step towards improving relations between Rwanda and Belgium.
