Congo’s government and M23 rebels will hold peace talks on March 18 in Luanda, Angola. The negotiations follow recent escalations in the conflict, notably M23’s control of Goma and Bukavu. These talks aim to address the humanitarian crisis affecting over 7 million displaced individuals in eastern Congo.
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group will engage in peace negotiations on March 18, as announced by Angola, who is serving as the mediator. The talks will take place in Luanda, the capital city of Angola, marking a significant step in addressing the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
Tensions escalated in late January when M23, backed by Rwanda, captured the strategic city of Goma, followed by Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Congo. In light of these developments, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi visited Angola on March 14 to explore the possibility of initiating peace talks.
The announcement follows previous unsuccessful attempts to broker peace that excluded the M23 group, focusing instead on their support from Rwanda. The M23 is among approximately 100 armed groups competing for control in eastern Congo, a region rich in minerals. This conflict has resulted in over 7 million people being displaced, contributing to a significant humanitarian crisis.
UN experts estimate that M23 is aided by around 4,000 Rwandan troops and has expressed intentions to push towards Kinshasa, the capital of Congo, located more than 1,000 miles away. The upcoming negotiations represent a critical opportunity for potential peace in a region long marred by violence and instability.
In summary, the upcoming peace talks on March 18 between Congo’s government and the M23 rebel group in Angola signify a pivotal effort to resolve ongoing conflict. This initiative emerges amid growing tensions in eastern Congo, particularly following the recent territorial gains by M23, backed by Rwandan forces. The international community will closely monitor these discussions as they may significantly impact the humanitarian crisis affecting millions in the region.
Original Source: www.elpasoinc.com
