Foreign ministers from the DRC and Rwanda met to stress the importance of a respected ceasefire in eastern DRC, following a ceasefire established in August with mediation from Angola. The ministers launched a committee for monitoring violations amid ongoing tensions with the M23 rebel group, which has continued offensive actions resulting in territorial gains and humanitarian repercussions.
On Tuesday, foreign ministers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda emphasized the crucial importance of adhering to a ceasefire in eastern DRC. The diplomats convened in Goma, North Kivu, alongside the Angolan foreign minister, to establish a committee tasked with monitoring ceasefire violations. Since early August, a ceasefire has been in place between the DRC army and the M23 rebel group supported by Rwanda, following successful mediation by Angola. Angolan Foreign Minister Tete Antonio reinforced the need for peace, stating, “The right path is the search for peace.” In contrast, Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner highlighted discrepancies between Rwanda’s public statements and its actions, particularly the occupation of various localities by M23 forces. Despite this, she acknowledged that the ceasefire had been largely respected.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has seen the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has been implicated in severe human rights violations and the dislocation of thousands of civilians. The M23’s offensive, which re-intensified in October, has triggered international concern and a humanitarian crisis, prompting efforts by neighboring nations to negotiate peace. With Angola mediating, the establishment of a monitoring committee represents a critical step towards maintaining the ceasefire and fostering dialogues aimed at sustainable peace in the region.
In light of the recent developments, all parties involved reaffirmed their commitment to the ceasefire, despite ongoing tensions and violations by the M23. The establishment of a monitoring committee is a significant initiative aimed at ensuring compliance and addressing discrepancies between public declarations and on-ground actions. Moving forward, the emphasis on diplomatic engagement and peace remains paramount to resolving the protracted conflict in eastern DRC.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
