Belgium and Rwanda restore diplomatic ties amid Congo conflict tensions
Belgium and Rwanda have re-established diplomatic relations 18 months after expelling each other's envoys over the eastern DRC war.
At the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Belgium’s foreign minister Maxime Prevot and Rwanda’s counterpart Olivier Nduhungirehe confirmed that diplomatic relations between their nations are being reinstated after an 18-month hiatus. The severance in March 2025 followed a dispute over the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where M23 rebels—allegedly backed by Rwanda—have seized major cities such as Goma and Bukavu.
While Kigali denies supporting the rebels, it claims to be defending against a Hutu militia allied with Congolese forces. Qatar facilitated a first meeting in June 2025, paving the way for one outlet rapprochement. Both ministers said they will soon reopen their embassies and continue constructive dialogue, with Belgium reaffirming its commitment to the DRC’s territorial integrity.
Why it matters
Restoring ties creates a diplomatic channel that could influence the volatile conflict in eastern Congo.
How the sides frame it
MODERATE AGREEMENTBoth camps report the restoration of Belgium-Rwanda diplomatic relations, but the centrist coverage frames it as a constructive, mutually agreed step, while the right-leaning coverage emphasizes the backdrop of the Congo conflict and allegations of Rwandan support for rebels.
CENTER
Centrist coverage presents the rapprochement as a constructive, mutually decided renewal of ties.
RIGHT
Right-leaning coverage presents the renewal as a diplomatic move set against the Congo conflict and claims of rebel support.
The right emphasises
- conflit dans l’est de la République démocratique du Congo
- rebelles M23 - prétendument soutenus par le Rwanda
- Qatar a facilité la première rencontre en juin 2025
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