The government of Rwanda has cut diplomatic ties with Belgium and ordered all the diplomats to leave within 48 hours.
Rwanda says in compliance with the Vienna Convention, it will ensure the protection of the premises, property, and archives of the Belgian diplomatic mission in Kigali.
In a statement by Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the decision made on Monday, noting that it was taken after careful consideration of Belgium’s actions which Kigali he described as attempts to sustain ‘neocolonial delusions’.
“The Government of Rwanda today notified the Government of Belgium of its decision to sever diplomatic relations, effective immediately. Rwanda’s decision has been taken after careful consideration of several factors, all linked with Belgium’s pitiful attempts to sustain its neocolonial delusions.” President Kagame said.
The statement further alleged that Belgium has allowed its territory to be used by groups that spread genocide denial and sustain genocidal ideology.
Kigali says Belgium has taken sides in a regional conflict and continues to systematically mobilize against Rwanda in different forums, using lies and manipulation to secure an unjustified hostile opinion of Rwanda, in an attempt to destabilize both Rwanda and the region.
“Beyond Belgium’s destructive historical role in fueling the ethnic extremism that resulted in entrenched discrimination and persecution, and ultimately the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, it has also allowed Belgian territory to be used by groups that propagate genocide denial and sustain genocidal ideology.” Stated Rwanda.
Adding that: “Belgium has consistently undermined Rwanda, both well before and during the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in which Belgium has a deep and violent historical role, especially in acting against Rwanda.”
Rwanda noted that the decision to cut ties with Belgium was a commitment to safeguard its national interests and the dignity of Rwandans, as well as upholding the principles of sovereignty, peace, and mutual respect.
Disproportionate decision
In a quick rejoinder, Belgium expressed regret over the decision by Rwanda describing it as ‘disproportionate’.
“Belgium regrets the decision of Rwanda to cut off diplomatic relations with Belgium and to declare Belgium’s diplomats persona non grata. This is disproportionate and shows that when we disagree with Rwanda they prefer not to engage in dialogue.”
Brussels announced retaliatory measures that include summoning of the Rwandan chargé d’affaires and equally expelling Rwandan diplomats as well as terminating governmental cooperation agreements.
“Belgium will take similar measures: the convocation of the Rwandan chargé d’affaires a.i., declaring Rwanda’s diplomats persona non grata and denouncing our governmental cooperation agreements.” The statement read.
Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/rwanda-to-belgium-keep-your-aid-respect-our-sovereignty/
