President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has honored his Foreign Minister, Thérèse Wagner Kayikwamba, with a bouquet of flowers in recognition of her diplomatic efforts to rally international support against Rwanda over its alleged involvement in the eastern DRC conflict.
The surprise gesture occurred during a cabinet meeting held at the presidential office. President Tshisekedi praised Kayikwamba for what he described as “remarkable progress” in raising the country’s profile on the international diplomatic stage, particularly in response to security challenges in the eastern region.
“Instructions were given, and results are visible,” Tshisekedi stated, adding that the Foreign Minister is a “true hero” for her service to the nation.
Minister Kayikwamba has recently led several international missions, calling on global powers to impose sanctions on Rwanda. The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group, which has been responsible for renewed violence in the volatile eastern provinces.
These accusations have gained traction among several Western nations, some of which have taken punitive measures against Rwanda. They have also pressured Kigali to cease its alleged support for M23 and withdraw its military presence from Congolese territory.
Rwanda has denied the allegations, accusing Western countries of biased diplomacy and failing to address the root causes of the long-standing conflict.
Despite heightened tensions, Rwanda and the DRC are currently engaged in U.S.-brokered peace talks aimed at de-escalation. Both countries are expected to sign a peace agreement in the coming days, signaling hope for a resolution to years of instability and mistrust.
