M23 rebels and the Congolese government will hold peace talks in Luanda, Angola on March 18, following escalated violence since January. The discussions aim to resolve tensions stemming from M23’s advances in eastern Congo. Angolan mediation is pivotal, as the region faces a severe humanitarian crisis with millions displaced.
The M23 rebels and the Congolese government are set to engage in peace negotiations next week in Luanda, Angola, following escalating tensions since January when the Rwanda-backed group captured significant areas in eastern Congo. Angolan President João Lourenço announced that these negotiations will aim to address the conflict that intensified after M23 gained control of the strategic city of Goma and later seized Bukavu, another key city in the region.
President Félix Tshisekedi was in Angola to discuss the possibility of the peace talks, and Lourenço’s office confirmed that discussions would commence on March 18. Angola has been facilitating mediation efforts, which have included both the government of Congo and the M23 rebels. Earlier conversations had excluded M23 and focused primarily on Rwanda’s involvement, which complicated peace efforts.
Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Tshisekedi, expressed optimism regarding the Angolan mediation and highlighted the importance of implementing this initiative. However, previous peace talks were marred by cancellations, particularly when Rwanda mandated that direct discussions between Congo and M23 were necessary for any agreement.
M23 is part of a plethora of armed groups in eastern Congo, fighting for control in a region rich in minerals. The conflict has led to humanitarian devastation, displacing over 7 million individuals. The UN reports that M23 is supported by around 4,000 Rwandan troops and has threatened to advance to the DRC’s capital, Kinshasa. To address abuses, including severe human rights violations, the UN Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into alleged atrocities by both factions involved in the ongoing conflict.
Peace negotiations between M23 rebels and the Congolese government signify a critical effort to stabilize eastern Congo, following months of escalating violence and tension. Despite previous setbacks in talks, the initiation of direct discussions in Angola offers a potential resolution pathway. The ongoing humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by armed group conflicts and support from foreign troops, underscores the urgent need for lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
