President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda held discussions in Qatar regarding the eastern Congolese conflict with the M23 rebel group. They committed to an immediate ceasefire and addressing peace talks, despite the group not participating. The ongoing humanitarian crisis and casualties highlight the urgency of resolving this conflict.
The presidents of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, and Rwanda’s Paul Kagame convened in Qatar to deliberate on the eastern Congolese conflict involving the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group. Even though the M23 was not in attendance, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to an immediate ceasefire in a joint statement issued following their meeting, which was facilitated by Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
This meeting coincided with the scheduled commencement of direct peace dialogue in Angola; however, the discussion did not take place due to the M23’s withdrawal following European Union sanctions on some of its leaders. The heads of state acknowledged the urgency of continuing the talks initiated in Doha to establish sustainable peace, as outlined in their statement.
The two leaders are to reconvene for a peace summit anticipated on December 15, 2024, following a recent ceasefire agreement enacted on August 4, 2024, which has been intermittently disrupted by ongoing hostilities. Disputes over the M23’s involvement in negotiations have halted the summit, as Rwanda advocates for their inclusion while the DRC opposes it.
João Lourenço’s efforts on March 18 were not the first instance of mediation; however, it was notable as the first time the Congolese government agreed to direct discussions with the M23. Nonetheless, the Angolan Foreign Affairs Ministry announced that the dialogue was canceled due to “force majeure” after the rebels declined to participate following newly imposed EU measures.
The Congo River Alliance (AFC), which encompasses the M23, lamented the apparent sabotage of peace efforts by certain international institutions, hindering long-awaited negotiations. With the M23 controlling the capitals of North and South Kivu provinces, rich in vital minerals, and the conflict since January displacing over 850,000 individuals, the situation remains dire. Furthermore, the conflict has led to over 8,500 fatalities in North Kivu, raising alarming concerns regarding the potential escalation into a broader regional conflict. Despite the presence of the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO), eastern DRC continues to grapple with persistent violence involving militias.
In summary, the meetings between the leaders of Rwanda and the DRC in Qatar aimed to address the ongoing conflict involving the M23 rebel group without their participation. The parties’ commitment to a ceasefire and the continuation of peace talks is vital for establishing long-term stability. However, the dialogues face challenges, including disagreements over the rebels’ involvement and the impact of international sanctions. The humanitarian crisis and casualties further underscore the urgent need for a resolution to this protracted conflict.
Original Source: efe.com
