Canada has suspended trade cooperation with Rwanda over allegations it supports M23 rebels in the DRC. This follows actions from the UK and the US, and includes measures to halt exports and new contracts with Rwanda. Canada condemned human rights abuses in the DRC, pledging $15 million in humanitarian aid.
Canada has announced the suspension of trade and business relations with Rwanda due to allegations that Kigali is providing support to the M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision was communicated through a joint statement by Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, and Trade Minister Mary Ng, who expressed strong condemnation of Rwanda’s involvement in the conflict in eastern DRC.
In their statement, the Canadian ministers declared, “Canada condemns in the strongest possible terms the March 23 Movement’s (M23) seizure of territory in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), including Goma and Bukavu.” Furthermore, they called out the Rwandan military’s presence in DRC, asserting that it violates the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the DRC as well as the United Nations Charter.
The Rwandan government promptly rebutted Canada’s accusations, labeling the claims as defamatory. A statement from Kigali indicated that “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.”
This latest Canadian action follows similar measures enacted by the United Kingdom and the United States, which have urged Rwanda to withdraw its military presence from eastern DRC and to cease its support for the M23 rebels. As scrutiny on Rwanda escalates, the country is likely to suffer increased diplomatic and economic repercussions.
To address the situation, Canada has taken several steps, including suspending the issuance of permits for exporting controlled goods to Rwanda and halting new government-to-government business initiatives. In addition, Canada is reviewing its participation in international events taking place in Rwanda and is assessing proposals from Rwanda to host future international summits.
Global Affairs Canada has summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner to express Canada’s stance regarding Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict. The Canadian government has also condemned the numerous human rights abuses occurring in eastern DRC, attributing these violations to the M23 rebels and their supporters. “Canada denounces the widespread atrocities in eastern DRC,” the ministers stated.
Moreover, Canada has announced a $15 million emergency humanitarian aid package aimed at aiding displaced and vulnerable individuals within the DRC. They reiterated their support for the International Criminal Court’s investigation into war crimes in the region to ensure justice is served to the victims of the conflict.
In summary, Canada has halted all trade cooperation with Rwanda amidst accusations of its military support for M23 rebels in the DRC. The initiative reflects Canada’s commitment to addressing human rights abuses and seeking justice for victims of the ongoing conflict. As other nations join in expressing disapproval, Rwanda faces increased scrutiny and potential economic consequences. Furthermore, Canada has allocated emergency aid to support those affected by the humanitarian crisis in DRC.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
