Direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels are scheduled for March 18 in Angola. This move comes amid rising tensions and violence, as the UN reports significant casualties and displacement since January. While M23 celebrates the negotiations as a victory, Congo’s government has not confirmed its participation, reflecting ongoing complexities in the situation.
The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels are set to commence direct peace talks in Luanda, Angola, on March 18, according to a statement from Angola’s presidency. The Angolan government is actively working to mediate a lasting ceasefire and alleviate rising tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the Tutsi-led M23 rebels, claims Rwanda has denied.
Angola previously announced its intention to facilitate the talks, although the Congolese government has shown reluctance in engaging with the M23. Recently, they acknowledged Angola’s initiative but refrained from confirming their participation in the negotiations.
Tina Salama, spokesperson for Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi, mentioned that an invitation from Angola had been received, yet it remains unclear whether Congo will attend. Meanwhile, M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa expressed confidence in the negotiations, asserting that engaging in dialogue is the “only civilised option to resolve the current crisis,” which has escalated severely since January.
Since that time, M23 has captured significant urban areas in eastern Congo, contributing to a longstanding conflict tied to the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for Congo’s rich mineral resources. The Congolese government reports that over 7,000 individuals have perished since January, with the UN indicating that at least 600,000 people have been displaced since November due to the violence.
The situation is further complicated by the presence of troops from neighboring countries, including South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda, leading to concerns about a potential regional conflict reminiscent of the devastating Congo wars of the 1990s and early 2000s. Eastern Congo is abundant in valuable minerals such as coltan, cobalt, copper, and lithium, which are crucial for advancing technology and developing renewable energy efforts.
In summary, Congo and M23 rebels are poised to initiate peace negotiations on March 18 in Angola, aimed at resolving ongoing conflicts that have deeply affected the region. Despite initial resistance from the Congolese government, there is recognition of the need for dialogue. The escalating violence, resulting in casualties and displacement, underscores the urgency of these discussions in preventing a broader regional crisis.
Original Source: sightmagazine.com.au
