On March 18, 2024, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met in Qatar to address the eastern Congolese conflict involving the M23 rebel group. They expressed commitment to a ceasefire but faced challenges from the M23’s withdrawal from peace talks after EU sanctions. Significant humanitarian concerns persist, with large-scale displacement and fatalities noted in North and South Kivu.
On March 18, 2024, the presidents of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, and Rwanda, Paul Kagame, convened in Qatar to discuss the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, specifically involving the Rwandan-supported March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group. Their meeting, facilitated by Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, resulted in a joint statement affirming a commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
The summit coincided with a planned peace dialogue in Angola, which ultimately did not occur due to the M23’s withdrawal in response to sanctions imposed by the European Union on its leaders. In their statement, the leaders acknowledged the importance of continuing discussions initiated in Doha to establish a foundation for lasting peace in the region.
A peace summit is scheduled for December 15, 2024, following a ceasefire agreement in Luanda. However, tensions have arisen regarding the M23’s potential role in negotiations, as Rwanda supports their inclusion while the DRC opposes it. This meeting marked a significant moment, as it was the DRC government’s first direct engagement with the M23.
Unfortunately, the Angolan Foreign Affairs Ministry announced the dialogue’s cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances after the M23’s withdrawal. The Congo River Alliance (AFC), which includes the M23, expressed regret over what they described as sabotaging efforts for peace by certain international institutions.
The M23, predominantly composed of Tutsis, is accused of aggression against the Congolese army and controls key areas rich in minerals in North and South Kivu. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over 850,000 people in South Kivu and significant casualties, with over 8,500 reported deaths in North Kivu since January 2023. Despite the presence of the UN peacekeeping mission, conflict persists in the eastern DRC, highlighting the complexity of the regional dispute.
In summary, the meeting between Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame in Qatar aimed to address the longstanding conflict in eastern Congo, focusing on achieving a ceasefire and fostering peace through continued dialogue. However, complications persist, particularly regarding the M23’s involvement in future negotiations. The ongoing conflict has dire humanitarian implications, with significant displacement and loss of life, underscoring the urgent need for resolution in the region.
Original Source: efe.com
