Congo is set to hold peace talks with the M23 rebel group on March 18, mediated by Angola, after heightened conflict led to the capture of key cities. This follows President Tshisekedi’s discussions in Angola, and although there has been no comment from Congo’s government, optimism remains for resolving the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
Congo’s government will engage in peace negotiations with the M23 rebel group on March 18 in Luanda, Angola, according to Angolan President João Lourenço’s office. The government revealed this plan after the rebels captured significant areas in eastern Congo, particularly the city of Goma, amid escalating conflict since late January. In February, M23 further advanced by taking control of Bukavu, the region’s second-largest city, highlighting the tensions in this mineral-rich area.
Angola has been acting as a mediator, particularly during President Felix Tshisekedi’s recent visit aimed at initiating peace talks. A statement from Lourenço’s office emphasized that both delegations from Congo and the M23 group would begin negotiations soon. While the Congolese government has not made an immediate public comment, they are expected to welcome the mediation efforts.
Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Tshisekedi, expressed optimism, acknowledging the Angolan mediation initiative on social media. This announcement follows previous canceled talks that did not include M23 and primarily addressed the group’s Rwandan supporters.
M23 is one of numerous armed factions competing for control in the resource-rich eastern region of Congo, significantly affecting the humanitarian situation with over 7 million displaced individuals. Support for M23 includes approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda, according to U.N. assessments, and the group has expressed ambitions to reach Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, located over 1,000 miles away.
The upcoming peace talks between Congo and M23, facilitated by Angola, are a critical development amid ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. With significant rebellions and humanitarian crises affecting millions, the world watches for any meaningful advancements towards stabilization. The outcome of these negotiations may significantly impact the future of the region and the safety of its displaced populations.
Original Source: apnews.com
