Angola is mediating the conflict in eastern DRC, with President Lourenço facilitating direct talks between the Congolese government and the M23 group. Following a meeting between the presidents, Angola plans to establish negotiations in Luanda for a ceasefire. The Congolese government has shown a willingness to consider this approach, despite previous hesitations about engaging with the M23.
Angola is actively mediating the ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with President João Lourenço leading efforts to facilitate direct negotiations between the DRC government and the M23 armed group. In a recent meeting in Luanda, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and President Lourenço discussed potential discussions between the two entities.
Following their private meeting, Angola’s presidency announced plans to initiate contact with M23 to organize direct negotiations aimed at achieving lasting peace. This mediation effort is crucial given the escalating conflict, influenced by Rwanda’s involvement and the historical context of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide as well as competition for control over DRC’s mineral resources.
Despite the DRC government’s previous refusal to negotiate directly with the M23, recent developments indicate a shift. President Tshisekedi previously insisted that any talks must involve Rwanda, whom he has referred to as the “master” of the M23. Nevertheless, following the bilateral discussions, Congolese officials are now open to the Angolan mediation and are awaiting its implementation.
The Congolese government emphasized that a framework for negotiations is already in place through the ongoing Nairobi process. Upcoming discussions relating to the crisis will occur at a Southern African region bloc summit, a summit between the EU and South Africa, and a United Nations Security Council meeting dedicated to the DRC conflict, all set for March and April respectively.
In summary, Angola’s role as mediator in the DRC crisis is pivotal, as it seeks to facilitate direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23. While the DRC authorities have traditionally resisted engaging with the group, recent diplomatic dialogues point towards a potential breakthrough. With key summits on the horizon, the international community’s involvement continues to be essential in addressing this enduring conflict.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
