Rwanda Reminds Belgium That FDLR Must Be Dismantled After Restoring Diplomatic Ties

On the evening of September 22, 2026, Rwanda and Belgium announced that they had restored diplomatic relations after 18 months of tensions that had led to the suspension of diplomatic activities between the two countries.

The announcement was made by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Belgian counterpart, Maxime Prévot, during a meeting in New York at the headquarters of the United Nations.

Minister Prévot said the restoration of diplomatic relations marked the beginning of a new phase of cooperation based on dialogue and mutual respect between the two countries.

“I am pleased to announce today that Belgium and Rwanda have restored diplomatic relations. In a world marked by growing conflicts, this is an important signal here in New York, at the United Nations headquarters, demonstrating the importance of dialogue and cooperation beyond our differences,” he said.

The Belgian minister stressed that restoring diplomatic relations did not mean that Belgium had changed its position on issues affecting the region, particularly the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“Restoring relations between our countries does not mean changing our position. Rather, it means establishing structured channels for dialogue, and I will continue to support the sovereignty and independence of the DRC,” he said.

He added that Belgium would continue to use its experience to contribute to efforts aimed at resolving regional challenges, supporting peace talks and calling on all parties to respect their commitments.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, said the restoration of relations would open the way for constructive dialogue between Rwanda and Belgium.

They are also pleased to restore our diplomatic relations, which should usher in a new period of constructive dialogue based on mutual respect.

He said lasting peace in the region would require addressing key issues, including respect for the sovereignty of countries in the region, dismantling the FDLR, and addressing the root causes of the conflict between the DRC government and the AFC/M23.

“Respecting the sovereignty of all countries in the region, dismantling the FDLR, which includes individuals who participated in the genocide, and resolving the conflict between the DRC government and AFC/M23 by addressing the issues at their roots are essential to achieving lasting peace in the region,” he said.

Relations between Rwanda and Belgium had deteriorated after the two countries disagreed over the security situation in eastern DRC. Brussels had been accused of being a major source of tension because it continued to call on the international community to suspend assistance to Rwanda.

Following the restoration of diplomatic relations, the two countries are expected to temporarily operate their embassies under Chargés d’Affaires, supported by diplomats, consular officials and small technical teams.

In the coming period, the two countries are expected to appoint new ambassadors, subject to approval. Rwanda’s ambassador in Brussels will also be responsible for managing Rwanda’s relations with the European Union (EU).