On September 22, 2026, Rwanda and Belgium announced the restoration of diplomatic relations, which had been strained for 18 months. The decision was made after a series of talks between the two countries, with Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, stating that the move did not imply a change in Belgium's stance on the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Prevot emphasized that Belgium would continue to prioritize the sovereignty and independence of the DRC.
The diplomatic row between Rwanda and Belgium began in March 2025, when Rwanda expelled Belgian diplomats and froze ties with Belgium, citing what it described as Belgium's colonial mentality and biased stance on the conflict in the DRC. Rwanda accused Belgium of spreading misinformation and interfering in its internal affairs. However, both countries have now agreed to move forward and cooperate on various issues, including economic and cultural exchanges.
According to Prevot, the restoration of diplomatic relations is a result of constructive talks with his Rwandan counterpart, and marks a new chapter in bilateral relations. He expressed hope that the two countries could work together on projects that benefit their citizens, and emphasized the importance of continued dialogue on issues where they disagree, including the conflict in the DRC.
The conflict in the DRC has been a major point of contention between Rwanda and Belgium, with Rwanda accusing Belgium of not doing enough to address the issue. Prevot stated that Belgium would continue to support efforts to bring peace and stability to the region, and would work with Rwanda and other regional actors to find a lasting solution to the conflict.
Rwanda's Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungire, welcomed the restoration of diplomatic relations with Belgium, and emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries in the region. He also highlighted the need to address the root causes of the conflict in the DRC, including the presence of armed groups such as the FDLR.
The two countries have agreed to prioritize cooperation on economic and cultural issues, and to work together on regional and international forums. Prevot stated that Belgium was committed to supporting Rwanda's development and economic growth, and that the two countries could work together on projects that benefit their citizens.
The restoration of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium has been welcomed by observers, who see it as a positive step towards improving relations between the two countries and promoting regional stability. The two countries have agreed to continue talks on issues where they disagree, and to work together on finding solutions to regional challenges.
Key points
- The restoration of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium marks a new chapter in bilateral relations, with both countries agreeing to cooperate on economic and cultural issues.
- The conflict in the DRC remains a major point of contention between Rwanda and Belgium, with both countries emphasizing the need for a lasting solution to the conflict.
- The two countries have agreed to prioritize cooperation on regional and international forums, and to work together on finding solutions to regional challenges.
