Angola is mediating the DRC crisis, aiming for direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 armed group. Presidents Tshisekedi and Lourenço plan for discussions to foster a definitive peace. M23’s recent territorial gains and accusations against Rwanda complicate the conflict, but Angola’s involvement offers a potential avenue for resolution.
Angola is actively mediating in the crisis affecting eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with President João Lourenço striving to facilitate direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 armed group. In a recent meeting held in Luanda, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and President Lourenço discussed potential dialogues between the DRC and M23, aiming for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Following their one-on-one discussion, Angola’s presidency announced plans to initiate contacts with the M23 to arrange direct negotiations in Luanda in the coming days, intending to achieve a definitive peace agreement for the region. Angola’s efforts focus on establishing a lasting ceasefire amid escalating tensions between Congo and neighboring Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the M23 rebels.
Rwanda has denied aiding the M23 rebels, asserting that its forces operate in self-defense against hostile Congolese troops and militias. The M23 group has captured several significant cities in eastern Congo, exacerbating a longstanding conflict that originated from the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the battle for Congo’s abundant natural resources.
Despite initially refusing to engage directly with the M23, the Congolese government now appears receptive to Angola’s initiative following the Luanda meeting. Tshisekedi previously insisted that any discussions should occur directly with Rwanda, whom he labeled as the “master” of the M23. The Congolese authorities have expressed their willingness to observe the Angolan plan’s implementation.
The framework for these negotiations aligns with the existing Nairobi process. Concurrently, a Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit addressing the DRC is scheduled, and significant discussions regarding the conflict will occur at the upcoming EU-South Africa summit in Cape Town and a UN Security Council meeting on 4 April.
Angola’s diplomatic intervention signifies a crucial step toward resolving the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. The prospect of direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23, facilitated by Angola, may pave the way for lasting peace. As regional and international stakeholders engage in discussions, the effectiveness of Angola’s approach remains to be observed, particularly in light of Rwanda’s involvement in the crisis.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
