Somalia supports Qatar’s mediation efforts in DRC-Rwanda talks aimed at reducing tensions. The engagement led to a commitment for an immediate ceasefire. This meeting marked the first direct dialogue between the two leaders amidst ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, raising concerns over rebel compliance.
Somalia has expressed its support for the diplomatic initiatives spearheaded by Qatar, which hosted a recent meeting in Doha between the presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. This meeting, mediated by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, aimed to alleviate tensions due to the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC between President Felix Tshisekedi and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs heralded this initiative as a significant advancement toward establishing peace and stability in eastern DRC and the broader region. The Somali government lauded both leaders for their commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, reaffirming its solidarity with the peoples of both nations in their quest for peace.
Moreover, Somalia commended Qatar for its commitment to dialogue-based conflict resolution. The ministry expressed gratitude, stating, “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 discussions in Doha constituted the first direct interaction between Kagame and Tshisekedi since the escalation of attacks by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, who have been accused by Kinshasa of receiving support from Rwanda. The M23 group captured the city of Goma in January and advanced into Bukavu in February, raising concerns over the efficacy of the ceasefire agreement.
Despite the call for a ceasefire by both leaders, uncertainty looms regarding the compliance of the M23 rebels, who had previously withdrawn from peace negotiations held in Angola.
Somalia has demonstrated strong support for Qatar’s mediation efforts in the recent DRC-Rwanda talks, emphasizing the necessity for peace in the region. The commitment to an immediate ceasefire by both leaders reflects a hopeful step forward. However, the future remains uncertain as the compliance of the M23 rebels, who have historically obstructed peace talks, poses a significant challenge to lasting resolution.
Original Source: themedialine.org
