The Government of Canada has strongly condemned the March 23 Movement (M23) for its seizure of territory in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), including the key cities of Goma and Bukavu.
In a joint statement, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly, Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen, and Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Mary Ng also denounced Rwanda’s military presence in the DRC and its alleged support for the rebel group, calling it a blatant violation of Congolese sovereignty and the United Nations Charter.
Canada is urging all parties to exercise restraint, engage in meaningful dialogue, and work toward a peaceful resolution to prevent further destabilization in the region. The government also expressed deep concern over reports of atrocities in eastern DRC, including attacks on civilians, internally displaced persons, humanitarian workers, and UN and regional peacekeepers. The statement specifically highlighted alarming reports of conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls, emphasizing that such acts violate international human rights and humanitarian law.
In response to Rwanda’s alleged role in the crisis, Canada announced a series of punitive measures, including:
- Suspension of export permits for controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda.
- Halt on new government-to-government business engagements and proactive private-sector trade support, including trade missions.
- Review of Canada’s participation in international events hosted in Rwanda and consideration of future Rwandan proposals to host global events.
To reinforce its position, Canada’s foreign ministry, summoned the Rwandan High Commissioner in Canada to express its disapproval and inform Rwanda of the newly imposed restrictions.
Canada also reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis in the eastern DRC by pledging $15 million in humanitarian aid to support those affected by the conflict.
The statement welcomed diplomatic efforts led by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the East African Community (EAC), and the African Union (AU) to restore stability in the region. Canada urged all stakeholders to uphold their commitments under the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes and work toward a sustainable resolution.
Rwanda in response, issued a statement saying the actions announced by Canada will not solve the problem.
