Belgium, Rwanda restore diplomatic ties after 18-month rift

Belgium and Rwanda have agreed to restore diplomatic relations, 18 months after Kigali severed ties with its former colonial ruler over disagreements linked to the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

"The Kingdom of Belgium and the Republic of Rwanda have jointly decided, on 22 September 2026, to restore diplomatic relations. To this end, their respective bilateral embassies will be reopened in the near future," the Belgian and Rwandan foreign ministries said in a joint statement.

Relations deteriorated in March 2025 after Belgium criticized Rwanda over its alleged support for the M23 armed group, which has seized territory in eastern DRC. Rwanda rejected the accusations and expelled Belgian diplomats, accusing Brussels of undermining the country.

The two foreign ministries said the decision to restore relations followed several meetings and informal contacts between Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot and his Rwandan counterpart Olivier Nduhungirehe in recent months.

They said the talks had helped address differences and misunderstandings in a "constructive spirit."

"In a world marked by growing tensions, this is an important signal here in New York, the UN's host city, which embodies multilateralism and dialogue beyond our differences," Prevot wrote on X.

Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining open and transparent dialogue while recognizing that disagreements over international issues remain.

Prevot said restoring relations did not mean Belgium was abandoning its position on the conflict in eastern DRC, adding that he would continue to defend the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Rwanda's Nduhungirehe said the move should open a new period of constructive dialogue based on mutual respect.

The two countries also thanked Qatar for facilitating an initial meeting between their officials in June 2025.