Next week, M23 rebels will meet with the Congolese government in Angola for peace talks due to rising tensions after the rebels captured key eastern Congo territories. Angola’s mediation aims to address the conflict exacerbated by over 7 million displaced individuals, with initial talks planned to begin on March 18. UN experts have noted M23’s support from Rwandan troops, raising concerns over ongoing human rights violations.
The M23 rebel group will engage in peace negotiations with the Congolese government next week in Angola, following a significant escalation of tensions since January. This meeting aims to address the conflict that intensified when M23 captured strategic locations in eastern Congo, notably the city of Goma.
The Angolan President João Lourenço announced that direct peace talks would commence on March 18 in Luanda. Angola has functioned as a mediator in eastern Congo’s conflict, which has included M23’s control of Bukavu, the second-largest city in the area. President Felix Tshisekedi visited Angola recently to facilitate discussions regarding these negotiations.
In a statement, Lourenço’s office indicated the importance of this mediation, noting the commitment of both parties to engage in talks. Following this announcement, Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Tshisekedi, expressed optimism via social media regarding the Angolan initiative.
The peace discussions come on the heels of previously cancelled talks in December, which focused on M23’s Rwandan supporters rather than directly involving the rebels. The complexity of the conflict involves around 100 different armed groups and has resulted in over 7 million displaced individuals, marking one of the most severe humanitarian crises worldwide.
As confirmed by UN experts, M23 is reinforced by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops. There are grave concerns about potential atrocities, as highlighted by the UN Human Rights Council’s recent establishment of a commission to investigate serious human rights violations perpetrated during this conflict.
In summary, the forthcoming peace negotiations between the M23 rebels and the Congolese government in Angola signify a crucial step towards resolving escalating tensions in eastern Congo. Despite previous challenges in facilitating talks and the ongoing humanitarian crisis resulting from armed conflicts, there is cautious optimism from Congolese officials regarding this mediation effort. The involvement of Angola as a mediator and the acknowledgment of urgent humanitarian concerns reflect the complexities and challenges that lie ahead in achieving lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
