Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated on Thursday that Türkiye is prepared to offer any assistance required to help resolve the dispute between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, provided both nations are open to such support.
“Türkiye stands ready to extend any necessary support to address this issue, which would promote stability and peace in the Great Lakes Region, should both parties seek it,” Erdogan said during a joint press conference with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Ankara.
Tensions in the region have persisted due to the M23 rebellion in eastern Congo, which began in 2022. While Kigali denies allegations of backing the group, accusations from Kinshasa have continued to strain relations between the two neighbors.
Erdogan commended Rwanda’s role in promoting stability and peace in East Africa and the Great Lakes region, aligning with the principle of “African solutions to African problems.”
Rwandan President Paul Kagame recognized Türkiye’s mediation efforts in regional conflicts, noting its successful role in facilitating the December 2024 Ankara Agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia. “Your good efforts may prove helpful in addressing the situation in our region, particularly regarding the DRC,” Kagame said.
During the visit, Erdogan highlighted the strengthening ties between Rwanda and Türkiye, describing Kagame’s visit as a “new milestone” in their bilateral relations. Since the establishment of embassies in 2013 and 2014, trade between the two nations has grown significantly, with investments nearing $500 million.
Erdogan praised Rwanda as a model for political stability, domestic peace, and economic development in Africa. He emphasized plans to deepen cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and development, with Turkish companies already playing a key role in Rwanda’s economic landscape.
Kagame expressed Rwanda’s openness to further Turkish investments and collaboration. “There is certainly a lot we can do together and learn from one another,” he said, citing Türkiye’s contributions to infrastructure development.
Both leaders emphasized their shared vision for international peace and security, with Kagame reiterating the importance of addressing regional instability internally rather than outsourcing responsibility.