Canada has suspended trade with Rwanda over allegations of its support for M23 rebels in the DRC. The Canadian government, backed by other nations, cited violations of sovereignty and human rights abuses. In response, Rwanda rejected these charges, calling them defamatory. Canada has enacted various punitive measures and committed emergency humanitarian aid for victims in the DRC.
Canada has suspended all trade and business cooperation with Rwanda due to accusations that Kigali has supported the M23 rebels and violated the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision was announced by Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, and Trade Minister Mary Ng. The ministers condemned Rwanda’s involvement in the escalating conflict within eastern DRC.
The Joint statement by Canada’s top officials condemned the M23’s territorial seizures, particularly in Goma and Bukavu. “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,” the joint statement noted. They characterized the presence of the Rwandan Defence Force as blatant violations of the DRC’s territorial integrity and the United Nations Charter.
In response to Canada’s position, the Rwandan government dismissed the allegations as defamatory and unacceptable. They remarked, “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.”
Canada’s actions are part of a broader international initiative, following similar steps taken by the UK and US, which have demanded the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and cessation of support for the M23 rebels. Rwanda now faces significant diplomatic and economic repercussions as countries increase pressure on it to cease its destabilizing activities in the DRC.
In light of the ongoing crisis, Canada has enacted several measures against Rwanda. These include suspending permits for the export of controlled goods and technologies, halting new government initiatives, and reviewing participation in international events in Rwanda. Global Affairs Canada has officially summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner to relay Canada’s concerns about Rwanda’s actions in the DRC.
Furthermore, Canada condemned the widespread human rights violations occurring in eastern DRC, which it attributes to the M23 and its affiliates. The government denounced various atrocities, including attacks on civilians, humanitarian workers, and peacekeepers. The ministers expressed particular concern over conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls.
Additionally, Canada reiterated its support for the International Criminal Court’s investigation of war crimes in the DRC, emphasizing the importance of delivering justice to victims. The Canadian government announced a commitment of $15 million in emergency humanitarian aid to support the displaced and vulnerable populations in DRC.
In summary, Canada’s suspension of trade with Rwanda underscores a firm stance against external influences contributing to the conflict in the DRC. The country seeks accountability for severe human rights abuses and aims to provide humanitarian assistance to affected populations. Amid escalating tensions and accusations, international partnerships are evolving as global scrutiny of Rwanda’s actions intensifies.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
