(Ecofin Agency) - In response to the M23 and Rwandan troops taking control of Goma, Brussels called on the European Union to consider sanctions against Kigali in late January.

Rwanda cut its diplomatic relations with Belgium. The country issued a statement on Monday, March 17, to mark the immediate and official split. The decision is a response to the “pathetic attempts to maintain neocolonial illusions” and a culmination of rising tensions between the two countries.

Rwanda accused Belgium of playing a major role in the ethnic divisions that led to the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis and claimed that Belgium continues to spread negative narratives about Rwanda internationally. The country also criticized Belgium for its involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), alleging that Belgium is taking sides and manipulating global opinion to harm Rwanda and destabilize the region.

This decision highlights Rwanda’s strong commitment to protect its national interests and sovereignty against what it sees as ongoing interference from Belgium. As part of the decision, all Belgian diplomats have been ordered to leave Rwanda within 48 hours. However, the African nation assured that the separation would follow diplomatic norms, ensuring the protection of the Belgian embassy’s property and records in Kigali.

Belgium’s response was quick. The country expressed regret over Rwanda’s decision. Vice Prime Minister Maxime Prévot shared his disappointment on social media, saying, “Belgium regrets Rwanda’s decision to sever diplomatic relations and declare our diplomats persona non grata.” Belgium called the move “disproportionate,” arguing that it shows Rwanda’s unwillingness to engage in dialog when disagreements arise.

In retaliation, Belgium has announced its own measures, including summoning the Rwandan chargé d'affaires, expelling Rwandan diplomats, and ending cooperation agreements between the two countries.

This diplomatic break could have serious consequences for Rwanda’s relations with the European Union (EU), where Belgium is a key member. The timing is especially important, as tensions are rising in Central Africa, with Rwanda and Belgium holding opposing views on several issues, particularly the crisis in the DRC.

Earlier, Rwanda had suspended its development cooperation with Belgium as several of its international partners called for sanctions against Kigali. Despite these tensions, Belgian investments in Rwanda remain significant, with trade between the two countries reaching $126 million in 2022, according to the International Trade Centre (ITC).