DR Congo and Rwanda have called for an immediate ceasefire after talks in Qatar. This follows the escalation of violence driven by M23 rebels, resulting in significant casualties. The feasibility of the ceasefire is uncertain as the M23 previously declined to participate in peace discussions, with both nations accusing each other of various aggressions. Continued dialogue is deemed crucial for lasting peace.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have jointly urged for an “immediate ceasefire” in eastern DRC following their discussions in Qatar. This meeting marks their first direct dialogue since the resurgence of hostilities led by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, which have claimed approximately 7,000 lives since January.
The potential response of the M23 to the ceasefire remains uncertain, as the group has previously chosen not to participate in peace negotiations held in Angola. Meanwhile, DRC continues to assert that Rwanda is arming the M23 and providing military support in the conflict, a claim that both the United Nations and the United States have echoed, while Rwanda firmly denies these accusations.
In self-defense, Rwanda contends that its military operations are a necessary response to the DRC Army and its allied militias. Furthermore, DRC alleges Rwanda has been illegally extracting mineral resources from its eastern territories, a charge Rwanda has also rejected.
Previous peace talks facilitated by Angola faltered in December when Rwanda insisted that the DRC government engage in direct dialogue with the M23. Since then, the rebel group has made significant territorial gains, overtaking the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu within a two-month span.
A statement from Qatar’s Foreign Ministry indicated that both leaders reiterated their commitment to an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire. However, the methods of implementation and monitoring remain ambiguous. The communiqué emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions initiated in Doha to lay the groundwork for sustainable peace.
Kagame expressed hope that collaboration among all relevant parties could expedite progress. According to DRC’s presidential spokeswoman Tina Salama, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, was instrumental in initiating these conversations, which he described as vital for both nations.
This dialogue follows a prior failure to unite DRC’s government with M23 rebels for peace talks, as the latter had withdrawn following European Union sanctions announced against its leadership.
In summary, the recent talks between DRC and Rwanda bring attention to the urgent need for a ceasefire amidst ongoing conflict involving M23 rebels. Despite calls for immediate action, challenges remain in ensuring compliance and monitoring the ceasefire. The involvement of Qatar in mediating discussions underscores the complexity and the international dimension of the conflict, which centers on long-standing grievances and accusations regarding military support and resource exploitation.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
