President Erdogan has offered Türkiye’s support to resolve the Rwanda-DRC dispute, emphasizing a collaborative approach for peace in the Great Lakes Region. Erdogan and President Kagame recognized the growth of their relations, highlighting investment opportunities and Türkiye’s support for Rwanda’s stability initiatives. The dialogue indicates a shared commitment to enhancing cooperation and addressing regional challenges.
On Thursday, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Türkiye expressed the country’s readiness to assist in resolving the ongoing dispute between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. During a joint press conference with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Ankara, Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s willingness to provide necessary support for peace and stability in the Great Lakes Region, dependent on the desires of both nations.
The conflict has escalated since 2022 with M23 rebels insurgent activities in eastern Congo, where the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of providing support to these rebels—a claim that Rwanda vehemently denies. Erdogan proclaimed the importance of African-led solutions, saying, “Within the framework of the principle of finding African solutions to African problems, we aim to contribute to the continent’s stability and development on the basis of equal partnership and win-win cooperation.”
Erdogan characterized Kagame’s visit as a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations, which have seen considerable growth since the establishment of embassies in 2013 and 2014, culminating in nearly $500 million in investments. Discussions during the meeting included strategies to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors and unlocking trade potential between the two nations.
The Turkish leader acknowledged the role of Turkish companies in Rwanda’s foreign trade and advocated for increased Turkish investments in the nation’s development projects. Erdogan also noted Rwanda’s proactive stance against the FETO terrorist organization, which is blamed for plotting the failed coup in Türkiye in 2016.
President Kagame echoed Erdogan’s sentiments on collaboration, stating that formal agreements would signify shared aspirations for enhanced cooperation. He commended Türkiye’s investment initiatives and efforts in improving infrastructure in Rwanda, emphasizing their mutual potential for growth and learning.
Expressing gratitude for Türkiye’s mediation in international conflicts, Kagame cited the successful Ankara Agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia as a valuable precedent. He highlighted the importance of regional self-sufficiency in managing instability and praised Türkiye’s resilience in the aftermath of recent natural disasters. Moreover, he extended condolences for a tragic incident in Türkiye that claimed numerous lives at a ski resort.
The diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Rwanda have developed significantly in recent years. Türkiye has expressed interest in strengthening political and economic ties with African countries. The backdrop of this cooperation also involves the ongoing tensions in the Great Lakes Region, particularly concerning the conflict between Rwanda and the DRC, which has implications for broader regional stability. Türkiye’s proactive assistance in mediation reflects its ambition to play a more prominent role in international affairs, particularly within Africa, aiming for equal partnerships through collaborative solutions.
In conclusion, Türkiye’s readiness to mediate in the dispute between Rwanda and the DRC illustrates its commitment to fostering peace and stability in the Great Lakes Region. The strengthening of relations between Türkiye and Rwanda marks a potential pathway for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, with both nations recognizing the importance of mutual investment and support. The constructive dialogue initiated by this visit sets a foundation for future collaboration and paves the way for joint efforts to tackle regional challenges.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
