Full Breakdown
Belgium and Rwanda Set to Restore Diplomatic Relations After 18-Month Break
By Drooid · · How we work
Restoration Planned for September 22
Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot and Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe announced a joint statement scheduled for September 22 that will re-establish diplomatic ties broken in March 2025. The statement says the two missions will reopen with limited staff led by chargé d’affaires ad interim, followed by the exchange of ambassadorial agréments. Rwanda’s ambassador to Belgium will also be accredited to the European Union.
Background to the Diplomatic Rupture
On March 17, 2025, Rwanda severed relations with Belgium, expelling Belgian diplomats and ending bilateral cooperation. Kigali accused Brussels of taking sides in the armed conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and of mobilising internationally against Rwanda; Belgium rejected the allegation as disproportionate. The dispute unfolded as the AFC-M23 rebel movement advanced in North and South Kivu, capturing Goma and Bukavu. The United Nations and several Western governments allege Rwandan support for the rebels, a claim Kigali denies. The European Union imposed sanctions on Rwandan military officials and M23 members the same day Rwanda cut ties, and Belgium supported those measures.
Official Statements & Responses
Nduhungirehe said the talks were conducted “in a constructive spirit” and highlighted a commitment to non-interference, mutual respect, and transparent dialogue. Both ministers thanked Qatar for facilitating their first meeting in Doha in June 2025, which they said allowed each side to explain its position.
Significance and Potential Impact
Re-opening embassies will give Kigali and Brussels a direct channel for managing bilateral differences and for discussing divergent views on the DRC conflict. Because Belgium is an EU member and Rwanda’s ambassador to Belgium will also represent Kigali to the EU, the restored link could influence broader European engagement in the Great Lakes region. The agreement, however, does not resolve the underlying disagreements over the conflict or the sanctions.
Next Steps
Following the September 22 announcement, each embassy will initially operate with a small technical team under a chargé d’affaires. After the agrément process is completed, full ambassadors will be appointed. Both governments have pledged to maintain an “open, candid and transparent dialogue” to address remaining disputes.
