Addressing members of the press from East and Southern Africa in New Delhi, Singh emphasised India's consistent policy of neutrality and dialogue in resolving global conflicts, while taking a firm stand against terrorism.
Singh articulated India's approach to the Rwanda-DRC crisis, stating, 'India's stated policy for many conflicts around the world, be it Rwanda-DRC, Russia-Ukraine, or Israel-Palestine, is to remain completely non-judgmental about the merits of the case.'
He explained that India refrains from examining evidence or passing judgment, viewing both Rwanda and the DRC as sovereign nations with their own decision-making capacities, histories, and perspectives on the conflict.
'Both sides are not children; they are adults,' Singh remarked, underscoring the importance of respecting their autonomy.
India's policy, as outlined by Singh, rests on three key pillars: an immediate cessation of hostilities, the initiation of dialogue, and an expression of concern for the situation.
'Our approach is always: stop fighting, start a conversation,' he said, noting that this framework applies universally across conflicts.
Singh emphasised that any Indian press statement on global conflicts would consistently advocate for these principles, reflecting India's commitment to fostering peace through diplomacy.
While advocating for neutrality in the Rwanda-DRC conflict, Singh was unequivocal in condemning terrorism.
'We have strong opinions on terrorism,' he declared. 'We reject distinctions like 'militant' versus 'terrorist' or 'good terrorist' versus 'bad terrorist.' The only good terrorist is a dead terrorist.'
He stressed that India draws a firm line against actions that target innocent civilians for political objectives.
'Nothing justifies picking up a gun and terrorising innocent civilians,' Singh asserted, adding that open warfare, if necessary, should be conducted transparently rather than through acts of terror.
DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting M23 rebel group, which is fighting for the rights of Rwandophone communities.
Rwanda vehemently denies these allegations and instead accuses the DRC of collaborating with the FDLR terrorist group, formed by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Singh's remarks also come amid ongoing negotiations facilitated by Qatar and the United States.
The peace deal between the two countries was expected to be signed on June 15, but the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, confirmed that the final agreement is yet to be finalised.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/india-s-mayank-singh-shares-stance-on-rwanda-drc-tensions
