The Democratic Republic of Congo will partake in peace talks with M23 rebels in Angola, following the escalation of conflict in its eastern regions. President Tshisekedi, despite previous refusals to negotiate directly, acknowledges the importance of these discussions. The ongoing humanitarian crisis has displaced over seven million people, prompting mediating efforts by Angola and international interest from the U.S.
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is set to engage in peace talks in Luanda, Angola, with the Rwanda-supported M23 rebel group. This development was confirmed today by Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi. Previously, President Tshisekedi had resisted engaging in direct negotiations with the rebels, despite the escalation of conflict in the eastern region of DR Congo, particularly after the rebels captured the strategic city of Goma in January and Bukavu in February.
The M23 group, accused of extensive human rights violations and supported by approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda, has also dispatched its own delegation to the talks in Luanda. The conflicts have led to a significant humanitarian crisis, displacing over seven million individuals. In a past statement, President Tshisekedi articulated his firm stance against negotiating with what he termed a “terrorist group.”
The peace negotiations were previously postponed in December due to conditionality imposed by Rwanda. Angola, having taken a mediatory role, will facilitate these crucial talks aimed at resolving the long-standing conflicts that have plagued the eastern regions since the inception of armed group rivalries. Furthermore, discussions around potential U.S. investment partnerships in DR Congo have commenced, with Secretary Ronny Jackson indicating the necessity of establishing peace as a precursor to such economic involvements.
In summary, the ongoing peace negotiations between the DR Congo government and the M23 rebels signal a pivotal moment in addressing the protracted conflict in the eastern regions. These discussions aim for a resolution to a crisis contributing to massive displacement and humanitarian turmoil. The U.S. interest in potential partnerships highlights the international dimension and economic implications of achieving stability in DR Congo.
Original Source: morningstaronline.co.uk
