The decision to restore diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium was made on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The move marks a significant shift in relations between Kigali and Brussels, which had been strained since March 2025 due to disagreements over the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to a joint statement, Rwanda and Belgium plan to reopen their respective embassies, initially led by interim charge d'affaires, before appointing new ambassadors. The two countries had several informal meetings and contacts between their foreign ministers, Olivier Nduhungirehe and Maxime Prévot, which helped address points of divergence and misunderstanding in a constructive spirit.
The Qatari government played a key role in facilitating the first meeting between the two foreign ministers in Doha in June 2025. Rwanda and Belgium have agreed to maintain an "open, frank, and transparent" dialogue based on non-interference, mutual respect, and constructive engagement. This new framework aims to enable both countries to address bilateral differences while continuing to discuss international issues.
Despite the restoration of diplomatic relations, significant differences remain between Rwanda and Belgium regarding the crisis in eastern DRC. Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, stated that Brussels will continue to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC. The Belgian government also pledged to continue supporting the Doha and Washington peace processes.
The diplomatic rupture between Kigali and Brussels occurred in March 2025 amid a severe deterioration in relations over the conflict in eastern DRC. Rwanda is accused by several international actors of supporting the M23 rebel group, which it denies. The reestablishment of diplomatic relations provides both countries with official channels to manage their differences and continue exchanges.
The announcement, made in New York, marks a return to institutional dialogue between Kigali and Brussels, without erasing the disagreements that continue to oppose them on the Congolese crisis. The two countries will now engage in diplomatic efforts to address their differences and work towards a more stable relationship.
The restored relations between Rwanda and Belgium are seen as a positive step towards improving diplomatic ties between the two nations. Both countries have expressed their commitment to working together on issues of mutual interest and finding solutions to their differences through dialogue and cooperation.
Key points
- Rwanda and Belgium have agreed to reopen their embassies and restore diplomatic relations.
- The two countries have committed to maintaining an "open, frank, and transparent" dialogue.
- Significant differences remain between Rwanda and Belgium regarding the crisis in eastern DRC.
