Ankara: Trkiye is prepared to assist in resolving the ongoing dispute between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced during a joint news conference with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Ankara. Erdogan emphasized Trkiye's readiness to aid in achieving stability and peace in the Great Lakes Region, contingent on the willingness of both parties involved.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan highlighted the importance of finding African solutions to African problems, aiming to contribute to the continent's stability and development through equal partnership and cooperative efforts. The conflict, primarily involving the M23 rebels who have been active in eastern Congo since 2022, has led to accusations from Kinshasa and others that Rwanda supports the group, a claim Rwanda denies.
Erdogan expressed Trkiye's support for direct negotiations facilitated by Angola and emphasized the significance of Kagame's visit as a milestone in enhancing bilateral relations. Trkiye and Rwanda have strengthened ties since establishing embassies in each other's countries in 2013 and 2014, with investments nearing $500 million. Erdogan lauded Rwanda as a model African country due to its political stability, domestic peace, and economic development.
The discussions during the meeting focused on expanding cooperation across various sectors, with a commitment to realizing the full potential of trade between the two nations. Erdogan noted the promising future of economic relations due to Turkish companies' significant role in Rwanda's foreign trade and their plans to increase investments in the country's development.
Erdogan also acknowledged Rwanda's efforts in combating the FETO terrorist organization, which Trkiye holds responsible for the failed coup attempt in 2016. He reiterated the importance of Trkiye and Rwanda's collaboration in exploring further opportunities for partnership.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed optimism about the deepening cooperation, emphasizing the signing of agreements as a testament to their shared vision. He welcomed increased Turkish investments, particularly in infrastructure development, and commended Trkiye's mediation in various regional conflicts, including the dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia.
Kagame suggested that Trkiye's mediation could be beneficial in the Rwanda-DRC situation and stressed the importance of regional self-reliance in addressing instability. He also praised Trkiye's resilience following the 2023 earthquakes and extended condolences for the ski resort fire tragedy in Bolu province.