M23 rebels will send a delegation to peace talks with the DRC government in Angola, following a request for dialogue from Angolan authorities. This marks a shift in DRC’s policy, as it will also send representatives. The conflict, intensified this year with M23’s territorial gains, has resulted in thousands of deaths and significant displacement in Eastern Congo.

On Monday, M23 rebels, which are supported by Rwanda, announced their participation in peace talks with the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This meeting is set to commence in Angola’s capital, Luanda, following a request from Angolan authorities. The delegation, consisting of five members, is scheduled to depart for these discussions after their announcement on a social media platform, as confirmed by Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the rebel alliance known as AFC.

In a significant policy shift, the DRC government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, has also agreed to send representatives to the peace talks, reversing its previous stance of refusing to engage with the M23 group. Angola is actively mediating efforts to establish a sustainable ceasefire and mitigate ongoing tensions between Congo and Rwanda. The conflict has been exacerbated by allegations from the United Nations and other entities that Rwanda has been supplying weapons and troops to support the Tutsi-led M23 rebels.

The long-standing conflict in Eastern Congo has historical roots in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, as it has become intertwined with the competition for control over the country’s abundant mineral resources. Recently, M23 has expanded its territorial influence, capturing areas previously outside its control, including important urban centers.

The DRC government has reported that the conflict has resulted in over 7,000 fatalities since January 2023, along with displacing approximately 600,000 individuals since November, as per the United Nations humanitarian office’s data. The situation underscores the urgent need for dialogue and resolution in a region plagued by protracted violence.

The participation of both the M23 rebels and the DRC government in peace talks in Angola marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict. Angola’s mediation aims to broker a ceasefire and alleviate tensions, particularly amid Rwanda’s alleged involvement. The situation remains dire, with significant casualties and displacement reported, highlighting the urgent necessity for sustained dialogue and a resolution to the decades-long crisis in Eastern Congo.

Original Source: www.usnews.com

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