Congo government confirms participation in peace talks with M23 rebels in Angola amidst ongoing conflict in the eastern region. The move follows prior refusals to negotiate directly with the rebels, against a backdrop of significant humanitarian crises. The U.S. has expressed interest in fostering partnerships in Congo, emphasizing the necessity of peace for economic collaboration.
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has officially announced its participation in peace talks with the M23 rebel group, which has gained control over significant areas in the eastern region rich in minerals. This announcement was made by Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, indicating that a delegation is currently in Luanda, Angola, for the discussions scheduled for Tuesday. Although Tshisekedi had previously rejected negotiations with the rebels, the situation has necessitated a reconsideration.
The M23 has also dispatched its own delegation to the peace talks, as confirmed by spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka on social media. The conflict in Kivu escalated in January 2023 when the M23 captured the strategic city of Goma, followed by Bukavu in February. Angola, serving as a mediator, announced last week the intention to facilitate direct peace negotiations between Congo and M23.
Previous peace talks between Congo and Rwanda were abruptly canceled in December when Rwanda offered to sign a peace agreement only if Congo engaged in direct discussions with the M23 rebels, a point Congo strongly opposed. President Tshisekedi had categorically stated, “A dialogue with a terrorist group like the M23 is a red line that we will never cross.”
The M23 is among approximately 100 armed groups competing for influence in eastern Congo, which has been marred by one of the world’s most alarming humanitarian crises, resulting in the displacement of over seven million people. Reports indicate that these rebels are backed by roughly 4,000 Rwandan troops and have expressed ambitions to advance towards Congo’s capital, Kinshasa.
Recently, the U.N. Human Rights Council initiated a commission to investigate heinous acts, including allegations of rape and extrajudicial killings perpetrated by both factions involved in the conflict. In tandem, the U.S. State Department has shown interest in developing a mining partnership with Congo and has confirmed that preliminary discussions have commenced on this front.
President Tshisekedi also met with U.S. Special Envoy to Congo, Representative Ronny Jackson, to converse about opportunities for security and economic alliances. Post meeting, Jackson remarked, “We want to work together so that American companies can invest and work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and for that we have to make sure there is a peace in the country.”
Congo’s engagement in peace talks with the M23 rebel group represents a significant development in the ongoing conflict in the eastern region. Although previously resistant to negotiations, the government’s decision stems from the need to address the humanitarian crisis affecting millions. With support from Angola and the involvement of outside parties including the United States, these talks may lay the groundwork for improved stability in the region, contingent on successful dialogue and collaboration between the involved parties.
Original Source: apnews.com
