Angola is mediating negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 group in eastern DRC. Following a meeting between Presidents Lourenço and Tshisekedi, there is renewed hope for direct discussions aimed at achieving lasting peace. The conflict is intricate, involving allegations of Rwandan support for M23, and both regional and international summits are addressing the situation.
Angola is actively mediating the ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and seeks to facilitate direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 armed group. President João Lourenço is working closely with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi to initiate these discussions following their recent meeting in Luanda. They aim to arrange talks between the DRC government and M23 representatives in the near future, focusing on securing lasting peace in the region.
The meeting on Tuesday highlighted the urgency of addressing the conflict that has reportedly escalated due to the involvement of external actors, specifically allegations of Rwandan support for M23. Rwandan officials refute these claims, asserting that their military actions are defensive measures against threats from Congolese forces and militias targeting Tutsi communities. In recent months, M23 rebels have gained control over significant cities within eastern Congo, exacerbating historical tensions rooted in Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the contest over Congo’s extensive mineral wealth.
Congolese authorities have historically resisted direct negotiations with the M23, preferring to address grievances with Rwanda, which they have identified as a primary influence over the group. However, post-meeting sentiments indicate a willingness to observe the progress of Angola’s mediation efforts. Tina Salama, spokesperson for the Congolese presidency, noted that existing frameworks like the Nairobi process could be employed to facilitate discussions.
Upcoming diplomatic events further address the situation; a Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit is currently convening, while the 8th EU-South Africa summit is scheduled for March 13 in Cape Town. Concurrently, the UN Security Council will deliberate on the DRC conflict on April 4. These dialogues endorse the international community’s engagement in resolving the strife in eastern DRC while amplifying Angola’s mediation role.
Angola is striving to mediate direct negotiations between the DRC government and the M23 armed group in a bid to restore peace in eastern Congo. The involvement of external nations, particularly Rwanda, complicates the situation, as they face allegations of support for the rebels. With upcoming regional and international diplomatic meetings, opportunities for dialogue are increasing, suggesting a collective effort to address the longstanding conflict in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
