The DRC government will partake in peace talks with the M23 rebels in Angola. Previously refusing direct negotiations, President Tshisekedi’s stance is evolving amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in the eastern DRC, where M23 has captured key territories. The discussions aim to address a deeply rooted conflict intensified by foreign involvement.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government will engage in peace negotiations in Angola with the M23 rebel group, known to be backed by Rwanda. A delegation representing the DRC is already in Luanda for these discussions, as confirmed by Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi. This marks a shift, as Tshisekedi had previously declined to negotiate directly with the rebels.
M23 has gained control over significant portions of the DRC’s mineral-rich eastern region and has also sent its own representatives to Luanda. The escalated conflict began when the rebels seized the strategic city of Goma in January and continued with the capture of Bukavu in February. Angola, acting as a mediator, announced the scheduled direct talks following previous cancellations that were contingent upon direct dialogue between M23 and the DRC government.
President Tshisekedi has characterized negotiations with M23 as unacceptable, stating that dialogue with a group he labels as “terrorist” is a boundary he will not cross. The M23 conflict contributes to a dire humanitarian situation, displacing over seven million individuals amid competition among various armed factions in the region.
Support from around 4,000 Rwandan troops has been claimed by UN experts, with threats from M23 to advance towards the capital, Kinshasa. The UN Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into reported atrocities from both sides, including grave human rights violations. In related diplomatic efforts, the US State Department has expressed interest in mining partnerships in the DRC and confirmed discussions have begun, following a meeting between Tshisekedi and US envoy Ronny Jackson regarding security and economic collaborations.
The DRC is shifting its stance towards direct negotiations with the M23 rebels amidst a complex humanitarian crisis exacerbated by foreign military support. The upcoming talks in Angola aim to facilitate peace, marking a critical juncture in a conflict that has caused widespread displacement and suffering. With international interest in partnerships increasing, the resolution of this conflict remains paramount for regional stability.
Original Source: morningstaronline.co.uk
