Canada stopped all trade with Rwanda because Rwanda helped M23 rebels and broke rules about respecting Congo's borders. This action comes after similar steps by Britain and America against Rwanda. Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly and other Canadian leaders made this announcement on Monday, saying they strongly oppose what's happening in eastern Congo.
The Canadian government believes Rwanda Defense Force troops are inside Congo, helping rebels take over cities like Goma and Bukavu. They view these actions as clear violations of international law and Congo's right to control its territory. Rwanda immediately denied these claims and called them unfair. Officials in Kigali said they plan to ask Canada for more details about these serious accusations.
Canadian officials have taken several steps against Rwanda. They have stopped allowing companies to send controlled goods to Rwanda, canceled plans for new business deals between the two governments, and are considering reconsidering attending events held in Rwanda or supporting Rwanda's bids to host international meetings.
Canada also brought in Rwanda's top diplomat to express deep concern about the situation. The Canadian government spoke out against terrible human rights abuses happening in eastern Congo, including attacks on regular people, aid workers, and peacekeepers. They mentioned being especially worried about sexual violence against women and girls during the conflict.
Canada expressed support for war crimes investigations by the International Criminal Court. They want justice for everyone hurt by the fighting in eastern Congo. As part of their response to the crisis, Canada pledged $15 million to help people displaced by the conflict and others who need emergency assistance in Congo.
The Canadian government believes Rwanda Defense Force troops are inside Congo, helping rebels take over cities like Goma and Bukavu. They view these actions as clear violations of international law and Congo's right to control its territory. Rwanda immediately denied these claims and called them unfair. Officials in Kigali said they plan to ask Canada for more details about these serious accusations.
Canadian officials have taken several steps against Rwanda. They have stopped allowing companies to send controlled goods to Rwanda, canceled plans for new business deals between the two governments, and are considering reconsidering attending events held in Rwanda or supporting Rwanda's bids to host international meetings.
Canada also brought in Rwanda's top diplomat to express deep concern about the situation. The Canadian government spoke out against terrible human rights abuses happening in eastern Congo, including attacks on regular people, aid workers, and peacekeepers. They mentioned being especially worried about sexual violence against women and girls during the conflict.
Canada expressed support for war crimes investigations by the International Criminal Court. They want justice for everyone hurt by the fighting in eastern Congo. As part of their response to the crisis, Canada pledged $15 million to help people displaced by the conflict and others who need emergency assistance in Congo.
