DR Congo and Rwanda’s presidents have called for an immediate ceasefire in Eastern DR Congo during talks in Qatar, following an escalation of violence by M23 rebels. The likelihood of the rebels complying is uncertain as they previously refused to participate in peace discussions. Accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels persist, despite denials from Rwanda. The need for continued dialogue to establish lasting peace was emphasized at the meetings.
In a significant development, Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame convened in Qatar, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Eastern DR Congo amidst ongoing conflict with M23 rebels. This meeting marks the first face-to-face engagement between the two leaders since the rebels intensified their military activities, resulting in approximately 7,000 fatalities since January.
The likelihood of the M23 rebels adhering to the ceasefire remains uncertain, particularly as they declined to participate in previous peace discussions in Angola. Accusations abound that DR Congo holds Rwanda accountable for arming the M23 and deploying troops to support them; however, Rwanda vehemently denies these claims despite support from UN and US observations.
Rwanda defends its military actions as necessary self-defense against the DR Congo army and allied militias, while also facing allegations of illegally exploiting Eastern DR Congo’s mineral resources. Past peace talks facilitated by Angola faltered last December following Rwanda’s insistence on direct negotiations between the DR Congo government and the M23 rebels, which enabled a rapid territorial gain by the rebel group.
According to a joint statement from Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, the two leaders reiterated their dedication to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, though the specifics of enforcement and monitoring remain unresolved. They acknowledged the importance of continuing dialogues initiated in Doha to lay the groundwork for enduring peace.
Furthermore, President Kagame emphasized that collaboration among all involved parties could expedite progress towards resolution. DR Congo’s spokesperson Tina Salama indicated that these discussions were instigated by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, highlighting Qatar’s role as a strategic partner for both nations. Notably, earlier efforts to establish peace talks failed as the M23 withdrew when the European Union imposed sanctions on its leaders.
In conclusion, the recent talks in Qatar between President Tshisekedi and President Kagame signify a proactive approach towards addressing the escalating conflict with M23 rebels in DR Congo. While both leaders advocate for an immediate ceasefire and further dialogue, the path to peace remains uncertain amid ongoing allegations and the rebels’ prior refusals to engage. The involvement of Qatar as a mediating force may provide a fresh avenue for conflict resolution, yet the implementation of agreed measures remains to be seen.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
