Ottawa, March 3, 2025 – The Canadian government has announced a series of sanctions against Rwanda due to its support for the M23 rebel group and the presence of its armed forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 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 strongly condemned the M23’s seizure of Goma and Bukavu, as well as Rwanda’s violation of DRC’s sovereignty.
Canada denounced the widespread atrocities in eastern DRC, including attacks on civilians, internally displaced persons, humanitarian workers, and UN and regional peacekeepers. The government expressed particular concern over reports of conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls. Ottawa reaffirmed its support for the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) investigation into crimes committed in eastern DRC, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for victims.
In response to Rwanda’s actions, Canada has decided to:
• Suspend the issuance of permits for the export of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda,
• Halt new government-to-government business engagements and proactive support for private-sector business development, including trade missions,
• Review its participation in international events hosted in Rwanda and assess any future proposals from Kigali to host such events.
The Rwandan High Commissioner to Canada was summoned by Global Affairs Canada to be formally informed of these measures and of Canada’s stance against Rwanda’s violation of DRC’s territorial integrity.
In addition, Ottawa announced $15 million in humanitarian assistance for the Democratic Republic of Congo to help address the needs of crisis-affected populations.
Canada also called on all parties to engage in dialogue and honor their commitments under the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes. The statement welcomed efforts by regional organizations, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the East African Community (EAC), and the African Union (AU), to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Therwandan
