Angola Mediates Direct Talks Between Kinshasa and M23 in DRC Crisis
Angola is mediating direct negotiations between the DRC and M23 rebels aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis. During a recent meeting between President Lourenço and President Tshisekedi, discussions were initiated to establish contact with the M23. The DRC authorities are beginning to consider this approach, despite previous refusals to negotiate with the rebel group.
Angola has positioned itself as a mediator in the ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by facilitating direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group. During a recent meeting in Luanda, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Angolan President João Lourenço discussed strategies to initiate these critical talks.
Following a one-on-one discussion, Angola’s presidency announced plans to establish contact with the M23 to enable direct negotiations in Luanda. This initiative aims to forge a lasting peace in the DRC, a nation significantly impacted by the conflict.
Angola’s mediation efforts also strive to achieve a ceasefire and alleviate rising tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, which faces allegations of supporting the M23 group. Rwandan authorities have denied these accusations, insisting that their military actions are defensive in nature, aimed at protecting Rwandan interests in response to hostilities.
The M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains, taking control of critical cities in eastern Congo since January, exacerbating a conflict that has historical roots linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the pursuit of Congo’s valuable mineral resources.
The Congolese presidency has previously resisted direct talks with the M23, instead advocating for discussions with Rwanda, whom President Tshisekedi has labeled as the “master” of the rebel movement. However, following the Luanda meeting, Congolese authorities expressed willingness to consider Angola’s proposal and are awaiting its implementation.
Additionally, a framework for negotiations, known as the Nairobi process, has already been established. The ongoing crisis in DRC is also set to be discussed during a Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit, and attention will be drawn to it at the upcoming EU-South Africa summit and a United Nations Security Council meeting.
In summary, Angola’s efforts to mediate a resolution in the DRC crisis are gaining traction as direct talks between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group are being contemplated. Despite past resistance to engaging with the rebels, Congolese authorities are now receptive to exploring Angola’s diplomatic framework. The situation remains critical as regional dynamics, particularly involving Rwanda, continue to be pivotal in stabilizing the region and achieving lasting peace.
Original Source: www.inkl.com
Post Comment