Direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels will commence on 18th March in Luanda, Angola. Angola aims to facilitate a ceasefire amid rising tensions, with the M23 group having recently escalated their control over eastern cities. Congo’s government is hesitant but acknowledges Angola’s role, amidst a backdrop of significant violence and displacement in the region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebels are set to engage in direct peace negotiations in Luanda, Angola, commencing on 18th March, as announced by Angola’s presidency. The Southern African nation aims to mediate a sustainable ceasefire and address escalating tensions with Rwanda, which has faced accusations of supporting the Tutsi-led M23 group, allegations that Rwanda has refuted.
Angola’s initiative was disclosed on Tuesday, though Congo’s government has historically resisted dialogue with M23, merely acknowledging Angola’s efforts in a statement. Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, indicated that while the government had received an invitation, its participation in the talks remains unconfirmed.
M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa publicly asserted that forcing President Tshisekedi to negotiate is “the only civilised option to resolve the current crisis,” which has significantly worsened since January. The rebel group has taken control of prominent eastern cities amid a conflict deeply rooted in historical tensions stemming from Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and battles over Congo’s extensive mineral wealth.
The ongoing violence has led to at least 7,000 fatalities, with over 600,000 individuals displaced, according to the UN humanitarian office. The presence of troops from neighboring nations such as South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda in East Congo has stirred concerns of a regional conflict similar to the devastating Congo wars of the late 20th century.
Eastern Congo is rich in essential minerals like coltan, cobalt, copper, and lithium, all pivotal to contemporary technological advancements and the global shift toward renewable energy.
In summary, the forthcoming peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels in Angola represent a critical step toward addressing the ongoing conflict that has led to significant loss of life and displacement. With regional tensions escalating, including the involvement of neighboring countries and the critical role of Congo’s mineral resources, the outcome of these discussions will be pivotal in shaping peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: sightmagazine.com.au
