Angola Mediates Direct Negotiations Between Kinshasa and M23 Amid DRC Crisis
Angola is mediating to facilitate direct talks between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group amid the ongoing crisis in eastern DRC. This initiative follows a meeting between Presidents Lourenço and Tshisekedi in Luanda. The aim is to negotiate a lasting peace, considering the historical context and regional tensions involving Rwanda. Future discussions will occur at various summits and international forums.
Angola is actively facilitating dialogue amid the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). President João Lourenço aims to initiate direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group. This effort follows a recent meeting between President Lourenço and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, held in Luanda, wherein both leaders expressed a desire to pursue talks with the armed group, marking a potential shift in approach.
The Angolan presidency announced plans to establish communications with the M23, intending to organize direct talks in Luanda soon. The overarching goal is to negotiate a lasting peace in the region, which has been marred by violence and political instability. This crisis has also seen tensions between the DRC and neighboring Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the M23, a claim that Rwandan authorities continue to deny.
Since January, the M23 rebels have captured significant urban areas in eastern Congo, exacerbating the existing conflict rooted in historical events, including the Rwandan genocide and competition over Congo’s mineral wealth. Amidst this turmoil, President Tshisekedi previously insisted that any dialogue should include Rwanda, whom he described as the “master” of the M23.
The Congolese government has signaled a willingness to consider the Angolan mediation strategy after meetings in Luanda. Spokesperson Tina Salama noted that a framework for negotiations had been established through the Nairobi process. Additionally, current discussions extend to regional and international forums, including an upcoming Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit and a United Nations Security Council meeting.
In conclusion, Angola’s initiative to mediate direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 presents a potential path towards resolving the ongoing conflict in the DRC. Both Presidents Lourenço and Tshisekedi are taking steps to engage in dialogue, while the situation remains complicated by regional dynamics and the underlying historical grievances. The coming weeks will be crucial as various international discussions and summits examine the conflict’s ramifications and seek sustainable peace efforts.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
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