Somalia has backed Qatar’s mediation in DRC-Rwanda diplomatic talks aimed at reducing tensions between President Tshisekedi and President Kagame. The Somali government praised the initiative as a vital step towards peace, advocating for a ceasefire while also acknowledging Qatar’s role in promoting dialogue to resolve conflicts.
Somalia has expressed its support for the diplomatic efforts conducted by Qatar in facilitating a crucial dialogue between the presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. This meeting, held on Tuesday in Doha and mediated by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, aimed to alleviate tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
In a statement on Wednesday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted this initiative as “an important step toward fostering peace and stability in the eastern DRC and the wider region.” The Somali government acknowledged the commitment of both leaders to pursue an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and expressed solidarity with the citizens of DRC and Rwanda in their quest for peace.
Somalia further commended Qatar for its role in advocating for dialogue and constructive conflict resolution. The Ministry remarked, “We extend our appreciation to the State of Qatar for its role in promoting constructive dialogue and mediation to resolve conflicts through peaceful means.”
The Doha discussions represented the first face-to-face engagement between President Kagame and President Tshisekedi since the escalation of attacks by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in the eastern region of DRC. The M23, which Kinshasa alleges benefits from Rwandan support, had previously seized Goma in January and advanced to Bukavu in February.
Although the two leaders have signaled intentions for an immediate ceasefire, there is skepticism regarding the M23 rebels’ adherence to this agreement, particularly since they previously withdrew from peace negotiations in Angola.
Somalia’s endorsement of Qatari mediation highlights a critical diplomatic engagement aimed at resolving tensions between DRC and Rwanda. The commitment of both country leaders to an immediate ceasefire is a positive step; however, the uncertain compliance of the M23 rebels poses challenges ahead. Continued efforts towards dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution remain essential for stability in the region.
Original Source: themedialine.org
