On March 18, 2023, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met in Qatar to discuss the conflict in eastern Congo involving the M23 rebel group. They affirmed a commitment to an unconditional ceasefire. The meeting preceded a cancelled peace dialogue in Angola, exacerbated by sanctions on M23. The ongoing conflict has caused extensive displacement and fatalities.
On March 18, 2023, the presidents of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda convened in Qatar to address the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, particularly involving the Rwandan-supported March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group. This meeting, mediated by Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, emphasized the commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as stated in a joint declaration from the two leaders.
The timing of this meeting coincided with a planned peace dialogue in Angola, which was cancelled after the M23 withdrew following sanctions imposed on its leaders by the European Union. In light of this, both presidents underscored the importance of ongoing discussions initiated in Doha to promote lasting peace in the region.
Despite a ceasefire agreement signed in Luanda on July 30, 2024, which was intended to be effective from August 4, fighting has continued, leading to the suspension of a summit that was scheduled for December 15, 2024. Disagreements arose over M23’s participation in negotiations, with Rwanda advocating for their inclusion and the DRC opposing it.
The Angolan Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed that the earlier dialogue could not proceed due to “reasons and circumstances of force majeure” after M23’s withdrawal. The Congo River Alliance (AFC), which includes the M23, expressed dismay at the actions of international institutions that they believe are undermining peace efforts.
Backed by Rwanda, the M23 has gained control over provincial capitals in North and South Kivu, areas rich in valuable minerals like gold and coltan. The conflict has displaced over 850,000 people in South Kivu since January, according to UNICEF, and has resulted in approximately 8,500 fatalities around Goma, as noted by Congolese officials. The M23, primarily composed of Tutsi individuals, resumed hostilities in late 2021 against the Congolese army, raising concerns of escalating regional conflict.
The meeting between the presidents of Rwanda and the DRC in Qatar exemplifies a renewed effort to resolve the escalating conflict in eastern Congo. Despite the challenges posed by the withdrawal of the M23 and international sanctions, both leaders remain committed to pursuing dialogue and establishing a permanent ceasefire. The humanitarian crisis, marked by significant displacement and casualties, necessitates immediate action to ensure lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: efe.com
