DR Congo will engage in peace talks in Angola with M23 rebels, marking a shift from previous refusals by President Tshisekedi. The ongoing conflict has created significant humanitarian crises in the mineral-rich eastern region, with international attention focusing on potential economic partnerships to support stability. Tshekedi remains firm against negotiating with armed groups labeled as terrorists, while the US is exploring opportunities for investment in the country.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) government will engage in peace talks in Angola with the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda. This was confirmed by Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, who noted the delegation’s presence in Luanda for the discussions. Previously, Tshisekedi had declined negotiations directly with the rebels.
M23 has taken significant territories in DR Congo’s mineral-rich eastern region, claiming to capture strategic cities like Goma and Bukavu earlier this year. Following its military advances, Angola will host peace negotiations between the Congolese authorities and M23 on a scheduled Tuesday.
These peace talks came after a failed attempt in December, where Rwanda insisted on direct discussions between the parties. Tshisekedi emphasized that engaging with M23 is unacceptable, labeling them as a terrorist organization.
In Eastern DR Congo, M23 is one of about 100 armed groups competing for control over resources, contributing to a humanitarian crisis with over seven million displaced. UN experts report the rebels are supported by approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda, posing a threat to the Congolese capital, Kinshasa.
The UN Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into allegations of human rights abuses committed by both factions during the ongoing conflict. Recent diplomatic engagements saw the US State Department express interest in mining partnerships in DR Congo, discussing security and economic relations with Tshisekedi.
US Special Envoy Ronny Jackson highlighted the intention to facilitate US investments in DR Congo, asserting the importance of establishing peace for economic progress.
In summary, DR Congo’s government is set to engage in peace talks with the M23 rebel group in Angola, following significant military conflicts and humanitarian crises in the region. While President Tshisekedi previously resisted direct negotiations with M23, the involvement aims to address the escalating violence and potential economic partnerships with the US are being explored to stabilize the area. Continuous international attention and mediation efforts remain crucial for peace in the region.
Original Source: morningstaronline.co.uk
