Rwanda cuts diplomatic ties with Belgium, orders diplomats to leave

Rwanda has severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, accusing it of neocolonial interference, regional destabilisation and tolerating genocide denial.

 The government ordered Belgian diplomats to leave within 48 hours.

 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the decision followed Belgium’s continued “undermining” of Rwanda, particularly in its involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Belgium has a historical role.

 “Belgium has taken sides in the ongoing regional conflict and systematically mobilised against Rwanda in international forums, using lies and manipulation to fuel hostility against our nation,” said the ministry in a statement on Monday, March 17.

 The government further accused Belgium of allowing its territory to be used by groups propagating genocide denial and sustaining genocidal ideology.

 It also referenced Belgium’s colonial history and its role in ethnic divisions that led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

 “Rwanda is committed to protecting its national interests and dignity while upholding sovereignty, peace and mutual respect,” said the statement.

 Under the Vienna Convention, Rwanda assured the protection of Belgium’s diplomatic premises, property and archives in Kigali.

 Belgium has not yet responded to Rwanda’s decision.