Somalia has formally supported Qatar’s diplomatic efforts following a meeting in Doha between the DRC and Rwandan presidents aiming to ease regional tensions. Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement emphasizing the importance of this mediation and the need for peace. Qatar’s role in promoting dialogue was also commended, although compliance from the M23 rebels remains unclear.
Somalia has expressed its endorsement of Qatar’s diplomatic initiatives, which facilitated a pivotal meeting between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwandan presidents in Doha on Tuesday. The discussions, mediated by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, sought to alleviate tensions arising from the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, involving President Felix Tshisekedi and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda.
On Wednesday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement acknowledging the importance of this mediation, emphasizing it as a significant step toward enhancing peace and stability in eastern DRC and the surrounding region. The Somali government commended both leaders for their commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire while expressing solidarity with the citizens of both nations in their quest for peace.
Furthermore, Somalia praised Qatar’s initiative in fostering dialogue as a means to resolve conflicts. 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 meeting in Doha represents the first direct talks between Kagame and Tshisekedi since the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels intensified their activities in eastern DRC. This armed group has been accused by the Congolese government of receiving support from Rwanda and had previously captured Goma in January before advancing toward Bukavu in February.
Despite the leaders’ call for an immediate ceasefire, uncertainty looms regarding compliance from the M23 rebels, who had previously withdrawn from earlier peace negotiations held in Angola.
The support expressed by Somalia for Qatar’s mediation in the DRC-Rwanda conflict underscores the significance of diplomatic dialogue in promoting regional stability. Despite displaying a united front, the willingness of the M23 rebels to adhere to a ceasefire agreement remains uncertain, highlighting the complexities of the ongoing conflict. The international community continues to monitor these developments closely.
Original Source: themedialine.org
