Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs has termed Canada’s position on the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as shameful.
In a statement responding to a directive suspending export license, Rwanda insisted that such measures will not solve the conflict.
The ministry insisted that they will be seeking further clarification on what it termed as ‘defamatory’ attribution of atrocities in DRC to Rwanda.
“Rwanda takes note of the statement by Global Affairs Canada on the situation in eastern DRC and finds the defamatory attribution to Rwanda of alleged atrocities unacceptable. We will be seeking clarification on this from the Canadian government.
“The measures against Rwanda announced by Canada will not solve the conflict. Rwanda will continue to work with the region on the agreed African-led mediation process, while we safeguard our national security,” Rwanda said.
The East African country further stated that it was wrong for Canada to claim to support peace efforts by regional bodies.
Rwanda said it is shameful that Canada has failed to hold the DRC government accountable for escalating attacks on its civilians in South Kivu.
“This includes the ongoing daily bombing and attacks on Banyamulenge villages in South Kivu by FARDC, FDLR and Wazalendo.
“Canada’s silence on these grave human rights violations is wrong and shameful.”
The Canadian government on Monday imposed sanctions on the government of Rwanda over the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Canadian Ministries of Foreign Affairs, International Development and Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, said they have suspended issuance of permits for export of controlled goods and technology to the East African country.
They also suspended government-to-government deals and support for private sector business.
The new directives have also put under review Canada’s participation in international events hosted in Rwanda, as well as Rwanda's proposal to host any such events in the country.
“As a result of Rwanda’s actions in the eastern DRC, the government of Canada has decided to: suspend the issuance of permits for the export of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda, suspend new government-to-government business pursuits with Rwanda, as well as proactive support to private-sector business development activities, including trade missions," Ministers Mélanie Joly, Ahmed Hussen, and Mary Ng said.
“Review government of Canada participation at international events hosted in Rwanda, as well as Rwandan proposals to host any future events."
