Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame met in Qatar to address the security crisis in eastern DRC fueled by the M23 rebellion, amidst accusations of Rwandan support. After cordial talks, both presidents agreed to an immediate ceasefire and emphasized the need for direct dialogue. The meeting follows failed peace negotiations and addresses escalating tensions and humanitarian concerns.
On Tuesday, a significant meeting occurred in Qatar between Felix Tshisekedi, the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, aimed at addressing the ongoing security crisis in eastern DRC. The emir of Qatar mediated this meeting, marking an important step in diplomatic efforts amid escalating tensions over accusations that Rwanda supports the M23 rebellion, which has taken control of significant territories in South and North Kivu provinces.
The meeting, lasting approximately 45 minutes, was deemed cordial thanks in part to the emir’s involvement, as he had previously attempted to facilitate dialogue in January 2023. Regional organizations have been actively working to encourage dialogue, leading to this recent encounter between the two leaders. Sources pointed out a shift in Tshisekedi’s stance towards negotiating with the M23, influenced by changing power dynamics and increasing international pressures on Kagame.
Following their discussions, both presidents expressed support for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, especially crucial after failed peace talks scheduled in Angola. A close source described the meeting as “secret” until Tshisekedi’s return to Kinshasa. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ceasefire agreements discussed at a recent African summit, aiming to foster stability in the DRC and the region.
Statements from both presidencies emphasized the need for direct political dialogue with all stakeholders to effectively resolve the root causes of conflict in Eastern DRC. Kagame’s spokesperson mentioned the agreement for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire,” promising details for implementation in the coming days.
The backdrop to this dialogue involves the M23 group’s allegations against international sanctions that allegedly undermine peace processes. The group criticized “certain international institutions” for complicating direct dialogue and pointing to the European Union’s sanctions on Rwandan military figures for their roles related to ongoing conflict in the DRC.
As the situation develops, the M23, claiming to represent the interests of Congolese Tutsis, has made significant territorial advances, including capturing Goma and Bukavu since January. Over 7,000 deaths have been attributed to their operations, although independent verification of casualty figures remains limited. The UN reports indicate Rwandan control over the M23, asserting that Kigali has deployed troops to access strategic resources in the region, a claim Rwanda continues to deny while citing its own security threats within DRC. Dialogue between the Congolese government and M23 had last occurred in 2013, spotlighting the importance of the recent talks.
The meeting between Tshisekedi and Kagame signifies a pivotal opportunity for resolving the security crisis in eastern DRC. Both leaders have committed to a ceasefire and direct dialogue to address ongoing conflicts, amid allegations of external influences complicating peace efforts. Historical context points to the urgency of these talks, especially given the M23’s recent military advancements and the significant humanitarian crisis they have precipitated. As regional and international pressures mount, this dialogue could be essential in establishing a stable future for the DRC and surrounding areas.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
