In the context of Rwandan aggression in the DRC and the violation of international law, Canada announced on March 3, 2025, that it has taken firm measures against the aggressor, Rwanda.
From the city of Ontario, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussein, and Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Mary Ng jointly made a statement, which was published on their website.
“Canada strongly condemns the territorial takeover by the March 23 Movement (M23) in eastern the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), including in Goma and Bukavu. We also condemn the presence of the Rwandan Defense Forces in the DRC and their support for the M23, which constitute blatant violations of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the DRC and of the United Nations Charter,” it read.
Economic measures against Rwanda
In response to actions deemed violations of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, particularly Rwanda’s military activities in the eastern part of the country, Canada has taken several economic decisions against Rwanda.
Among these measures is the suspension of licenses for the export of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda. This decision aims to limit Rwanda’s access to certain sensitive equipment and to exert diplomatic pressure to encourage it to cease its military actions in the DRC.
The Canadian government has also suspended new government-to-government trade activities with Rwanda. Furthermore, Canada has decided not to proactively support private sector trade development activities in Rwanda, including suspending trade missions. These measures are part of Canada’s effort to pressure the Rwandan government to respect the sovereignty of the DRC and to actively participate in peace initiatives.
A call for peace and regional cooperation
Canada actively supports diplomatic efforts by the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU) to find a peaceful solution to this crisis. Canadian authorities urge all stakeholders to demonstrate genuine political will to achieve lasting peace. They emphasize the importance of adhering to commitments made in the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes. These initiatives, aimed at fostering dialogue and reconciliation among various conflict actors, are essential steps for addressing the root causes of violence and restoring stability in the region.
Canada also highlights the need to address urgent humanitarian needs and tackle the underlying causes of the conflict, particularly regarding ethnic tensions and the struggle for control over natural resources.
Sanctions still weigh on Rwanda, which, through its puppets, illegally occupies DRC territories despite a ceasefire.
It continues to face suspensions following those from the United Kingdom, Belgium, the European Union, Germany, and the United States.
