The Canadian government has imposed sanctions on Rwanda, suspending the issuance of export permits for controlled goods and technology, citing Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a directive issued by the Canadian Ministries of Foreign Affairs, International Development, and Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, Canada announced a halt to government-to-government deals with Rwanda and the suspension of support for private-sector business development. The directive also puts under review Canada’s participation in international events hosted in Rwanda and any future proposals for Rwanda to host such events.
“As a result of Rwanda’s actions in the eastern DRC, the government of Canada has decided to suspend the issuance of permits for the export of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda, suspend new government-to-government business pursuits with Rwanda, as well as proactive support to private-sector business development activities, including trade missions,” a joint statement by Ministers Mélanie Joly, Ahmed Hussen, and Mary Ng read.
Additionally, Canada’s Global Affairs office summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner to express its disapproval of Rwanda’s “clear violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and to formally communicate the newly imposed measures.
Alongside these sanctions, Canada has announced a $15 million humanitarian aid package for the DRC to address the needs of those affected by the conflict. The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC has deteriorated significantly due to ongoing clashes involving the M23 rebel group, which Canada has strongly condemned for its seizure of Goma and Bukavu territory.
The administration of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also criticized the presence of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) in the DRC and its alleged support for M23 rebels. Trudeau emphasized the need for regional cooperation, welcoming peace efforts by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the East African Community (EAC), and the African Union (AU).
“We urge all stakeholders to demonstrate political will to find peace, honor their commitments under the Luanda and Nairobi processes, and collaborate to address humanitarian needs and the underlying causes of this conflict,” Trudeau stated.
The Canadian government’s actions add to international pressure on Rwanda as efforts to restore peace in the DRC continue.
