Congo’s government will partake in peace talks with M23 rebels in Angola, marking a notable change from prior refusals. The ongoing conflict, exacerbated by Rwandan support for M23, has resulted in severe humanitarian crises in eastern Congo. Concurrently, discussions regarding U.S. economic partnerships are underway as stability is sought in the region.
The Congolese government is set to engage in peace talks with the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, as confirmed by a spokesperson on Monday. These discussions will take place on Tuesday in the Angolan capital, Luanda, where a delegation from Congo is already present. It is noteworthy that President Felix Tshisekedi had previously declined to hold direct negotiations with the M23 rebels.
Joining the talks, the M23 rebel group has dispatched its own delegation to Luanda, as stated by the group’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka. The conflict escalated earlier this year with the M23 rebels capturing the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu, leading to increased tensions in the region.
Angola, acting as a mediator, announced the hosting of direct negotiations that could potentially pave the way for peace. However, previous talks between Congo and Rwanda were abruptly canceled in December when Rwanda insisted on a direct dialogue between Congo and the M23, which Congo firmly opposed, maintaining that direct dialogue with M23 would be unacceptable.
In a diplomatic address, President Tshisekedi declared, “A dialogue with a terrorist group like the M23 is a red line that we will never cross.” M23 is among approximately 100 armed groups in eastern Congo, a region plagued by one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally, resulting in the displacement of over seven million individuals.
The United Nations estimates that M23 is backed by about 4,000 Rwandan troops. Additionally, the U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into reported atrocities from both the government and rebel sides, including serious human rights violations.
Concurrently, the U.S. State Department has expressed interest in exploring a mining partnership with Congo and has started preliminary discussions. Following a meeting between President Tshisekedi and U.S. Special Envoy to Congo, Representative Ronny Jackson, there is a clear intent to enhance security and economic collaboration. Jackson stated, “We want to work together so that American companies can invest and work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and for that we have to make sure there is peace in the country.”
The Congolese government is poised to engage in crucial peace talks with the M23 rebel group, facilitated by Angola. Despite previous refusals to negotiate with the rebels, this dialogue could signal a shift towards resolving the escalating conflict that has resulted in significant humanitarian distress. The international community, particularly the United States, is also exploring partnerships in Congo, emphasizing the importance of peace for economic investments in the region.
Original Source: www.winnipegfreepress.com
