On February 19, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda met with Hadja Lahbib, the European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, along with Johan Borgstam, the EU Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region, to address the escalating security crisis in eastern DR Congo. This meeting took place against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in the region and aimed to explore collaborative solutions to the humanitarian needs arising from these conflicts. The conversations highlighted the importance of both continental and international efforts to alleviate the suffering of the affected populations in eastern DR Congo.

Commissioner Lahbib's visit to Kigali is part of a broader regional tour aimed at assessing the humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict. During her trip, she has also engaged with other regional leaders, including Presidents Felix Tshisekedi of DR Congo and Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, which underscores the EU's commitment to a cooperative approach in addressing the crisis. The dialogue with Rwandan officials is particularly significant given Rwanda's historical involvement in the dynamics of security and humanitarian challenges in DR Congo, thus making their perspective crucial in devising effective responses to the crisis.

At a joint press conference with Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, Commissioner Lahbib expressed gratitude to President Kagame for the 'profound and rich exchange' of ideas. This meeting is a critical step in fostering regional alliances and ensuring that the measures being proposed are not only immediate solutions but also pave the way for long-term stability and peace in the region.