The Democratic Republic of Congo will join peace talks in Angola on Tuesday to address conflict with Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. President Tshisekedi is reconsidering dialogue after military defeats and diminishing support. The M23 acknowledges the talks and has set demands for direct negotiations.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced that it will dispatch a delegation to Angola on Tuesday to engage in peace talks addressing the escalating conflict with Rwandan-backed rebels. This initiative comes amidst increasing concerns about the ongoing violence in the eastern region, as stated by the Congolese presidency.
Angola confirmed that the direct negotiations between Congo and the M23 rebels are set to commence in Luanda on March 18. President Felix Tshisekedi, who has traditionally opposed dialogue with M23, is reconsidering his stance following recent military setbacks and reduced regional support for his government.
The specifics of the delegation have not yet been disclosed, according to presidency spokesperson Tina Salama. Meanwhile, the M23 rebels, who acknowledged receipt of the invitation from Angola, have articulated a set of demands, including the expectation that President Tshisekedi publicly demonstrates his willingness to engage in negotiations.
In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo is set to participate in peace talks with M23 rebels in Angola, signaling a potential shift in President Tshisekedi’s previously firm position. This move comes in response to ongoing conflicts and is aimed at fostering stability in the region. The delegation’s composition remains undecided, and the M23 has expressed specific demands for the dialogue.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
