President Kagame of Rwanda and DRC’s President Tshisekedi held talks in Qatar, hosted by Emir Sheikh Tamim, to address tensions in Eastern DRC. They emphasized the importance of the EAC-SADC mechanisms and political dialogue with AFC/M23 to establish lasting peace. The meeting left room for cautious optimism regarding future conflict resolution in the region.
On Tuesday, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda engaged in a significant discussion with Felix Antoine Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), under the auspices of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at Lusail Palace in Qatar. This meeting aimed to alleviate tensions and promote peace, particularly in Eastern DRC, amidst ongoing conflict.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of the EAC-SADC process as the primary pathway to achieving sustainable peace. They underscored the need to confront the FDLR genocidal forces and highlighted the significance of ensuring security guarantees for Rwanda and the surrounding regions.
The discussions also touched on the necessity for a direct political dialogue with the AFC/M23, which is crucial in addressing the underlying issues fueling the conflict in Eastern DRC. Kagame reiterated his confidence that collaborative efforts among all parties would expedite progress toward solutions.
A statement from the Rwandan President’s office noted Kagame’s gratitude toward Sheikh Tamim for facilitating constructive dialogue aimed at durable peace in the DRC and the wider region. Furthermore, a joint statement by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged advancements from previous Luanda and Nairobi processes, consolidating progress towards resolution.
The trilateral meeting reaffirmed a commitment among leaders for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire as previously agreed upon. They acknowledged the need for ongoing discussions initiated in Doha, aiming to lay the groundwork for a lasting peace, aligned with the merged Luanda/Nairobi processes.
The leaders recognized Qatar’s vital role in orchestrating this dialogue, fostering mutual trust and a dedicated vision for stability in the DRC and the broader region. While some express only cautious optimism regarding the outcomes, social media reflects a hopeful sentiment towards resolving the enduring conflicts in the Great Lakes Region.
The meeting between Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi in Qatar marks a constructive step toward peace in the DRC, highlighting the importance of collaborative dialogue and regional security. The emphasis on addressing root issues and ensuring a ceasefire reflects the commitment from both leaders to pursue sustainable solutions, supported by Qatar’s facilitation. While cautious optimism prevails, the ongoing discussions are crucial to achieving long-term stability in the region.
Original Source: www.ktpress.rw
