Congo to engage in peace talks with M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, in Angola. This marks a change from President Tshisekedi’s prior rejection of negotiations. The conflict has caused over 7 million displacements and involves multiple armed factions. The U.N. is investigating human rights abuses, while the U.S. is exploring economic partnerships in Congo.
Congo’s government has announced its participation in peace talks in Angola scheduled for Tuesday, aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict with the M23 rebel group. The M23, which has received support from Rwanda, has seized significant territories in Congo’s mineral-rich eastern region. Spokesperson Tina Salama confirmed a Congolese delegation is currently in Luanda despite President Felix Tshisekedi’s previous reluctance to engage in direct negotiations.
The conflict intensified in January when M23 forces took control of the strategic city of Goma, followed by Bukavu in February. Angola has taken on the role of mediator and offered to host these vital peace discussions. However, previous attempts at peace talks between Congo and Rwanda were thwarted in December when Rwanda conditioned the agreement on Congo’s direct dialogue with M23, which was initially rebuffed by Tshisekedi.
Congo regards engagement with M23, classified as a terrorist group by Tshisekedi, as unacceptable. The eastern region of Congo is war-torn with over 100 armed groups battling for control, leading to one of the world’s dire humanitarian crises, with more than 7 million people displaced. M23 is allegedly bolstered by around 4,000 Rwandan troops and has expressed ambitions to extend their control towards Kinshasa, the capital.
Efforts to address human rights abuses continue, as the U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into reports of violence, including sexual assault and killings reminiscent of summary executions involving both fighting parties. Additionally, recent developments show the U.S. State Department expressing openness to mining partnerships in Congo after preliminary talks were confirmed.
Discussions of economic collaboration were highlighted during a meeting between Tshisekedi and U.S. special envoy Ronny Jackson, where the focus was on ensuring peace in Congo to facilitate American investments in the country.
Congo’s participation in the peace talks represents a shift in its approach to addressing the M23 crisis, previously marked by refusal to negotiate with the rebel group. The escalation of the conflict has significant humanitarian implications and involves complex dynamics with regional powers like Rwanda. As peace discussions proceed, efforts to investigate human rights violations and potential international partnerships may play a role in stabilizing the region.
Original Source: www.winnipegfreepress.com
