Rwanda and Belgium have announced the resumption of diplomatic relations, marking a new phase of engagement between the two countries. The decision follows a series of meetings and informal contacts between the two Ministers of Foreign Affairs, during which differences and misunderstandings were addressed in a constructive spirit. This development was announced in New York, with Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot describing it as an important signal of multilateralism and dialogue.
The two countries had severed ties in March 2025, when Rwanda accused Belgium of taking a hostile position over the conflict in eastern DRC. Belgium responded by declaring Rwandan diplomats persona non grata and terminating bilateral government cooperation agreements. The dispute was largely linked to Belgium's position on the conflict in eastern DRC and allegations concerning Rwanda's role in the crisis.
According to Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot, restoring diplomatic relations does not mean Belgium is abandoning its position on the conflict, but rather having structured channels for dialogue. He noted that Belgium and Rwanda agreed on the importance of systematic dialogue, including on points of disagreement that remain, such as the conflict in eastern DRC.
Belgium maintains that it will use its regional expertise to support mediation efforts and continue urging all parties to respect commitments made under the Doha and Washington processes. Deputy Prime Minister Prevot expressed confidence that renewed relations would support a positive and mutually beneficial agenda, grounded in the richness of interpersonal relations between the two nations.
Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, welcomed the resumption of diplomatic relations, saying it will open a new era of constructive dialogue in a spirit of mutual respect. He outlined the path to regional peace, emphasizing the need for respect for the territorial integrity of all countries in the region, the neutralization of the FDLR, and addressing the root causes of the conflict between the DRC government and the AFC/M23.
In a joint statement, Belgium and Rwanda said their respective bilateral embassies will be reopened in the near future, with each mission headed by a chargé d’affaires ad interim, supported by a diplomat or consular officer and a small technical support team. Requests for agrément for Ambassadors will subsequently be submitted in view of a future diplomatic movement.
The African Union has welcomed the resumption of diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Belgium, terming it a demonstration of the value of diplomacy and dialogue in overcoming differences and strengthening cooperation. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, commended Belgium and Rwanda for the development and acknowledged the constructive role played by Qatar in facilitating dialogue.
Key points
- The resumption of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium is seen as a positive step towards regional peace and stability.
- The two countries had severed ties in March 2025 over the conflict in eastern DRC.
- The African Union has welcomed the development, terming it a demonstration of the value of diplomacy and dialogue.
