By 
Kigali, 18 February 2025– In a significant diplomatic move, Rwanda has announced the suspension of development cooperation with Belgium, citing recent political actions taken by Belgium that are perceived to undermine Rwanda’s access to crucial development finance.
The decision comes at a time when the international community rests on the African Union’s (AU) mediation efforts to resolve ongoing crises in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Relations between the two nations have soured as Belgium has actively participated in what Rwanda describes as an aggressive campaign against it, aligning themselves closely with the DRC. Rwanda’s government expressed concern that Belgium’s political stance is jeopardizing essential developmental support, characterizing such actions as politicization of development a practice they deemed “plainly wrong.”
“This situation sets a precarious precedent where no country in the region should witness its development financing weaponized as a form of leverage,” a statement from Rwanda’s government read. They assert that punitive measures taken without understanding the context could be seen as external interference that jeopardizes African-led mediation processes, potentially hampering peace resolutions that have remained elusive over the years.
Rwanda’s statement reiterated that punitive actions have historically failed to resolve conflicts, instead perpetuating them. With the suspension of the remaining bilateral aid program with Belgium for the 2024-2029 period, officials emphasized that their national security cannot be compromised. “Rwanda will not be bullied or blackmailed,” they insisted, underscoring the need for secure borders and an end to what they call the politics of violent ethnic extremism in the region.
The announcement articulates Rwanda’s broader call for peace and a sustainable solution to the recurring cycles of conflict rooted in the DRC government and the international community’s long-standing failure to dismantle extremist groups such as the UN-sanctioned genocidal FDLR militia. Officials stressed the importance of protecting minority rights in these efforts.
Rwanda reiterates its commitment to fostering development partnerships grounded in mutual respect. With a track record of high accountability for aid funding received, the government insists that respect for partnerships and enduring support for AU/EAC/SADC mediation are vital as the region navigates these challenging moments.
As tensions rise and diplomatic relations shift, the international community watches closely how this decision may impact future development initiatives and regional stability in the vast African Great Lakes region.
