Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame met in Qatar to discuss the security crisis in eastern DRC. Accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebellion were addressed, with both leaders supporting a ceasefire. Tshisekedi appears open to negotiating with the M23, reflecting changing power dynamics. The meeting comes amidst cancelled peace talks in Angola and ongoing regional tensions related to military actions and sanctions.
On Tuesday, Felix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, convened for crisis talks in Qatar, facilitated by the emir. This meeting aimed to address the ongoing security crisis in eastern DRC, where the M23 rebellion has gained a significant foothold in the South and North Kivu provinces. The DRC government has accused Rwanda of supporting this insurgency, a claim that Rwanda has consistently denied despite backing from multiple United Nations reports.
The meeting lasted about 45 minutes in a “cordial” atmosphere, largely attributed to the mediation efforts of the emir, who had previously attempted to organize a meeting in January 2023, which ultimately did not take place. According to sources from RFI’s Africa service, this latest engagement was welcomed after several regional organizations endeavored to revive dialogue between the two leaders.
During discussions, both presidents voiced their support for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, following the failure of peace talks in Angola just hours earlier. A source close to the Congolese presidency noted that the meeting was kept confidential until Tshisekedi returned to Kinshasa. A joint statement confirmed that all parties reaffirmed their commitment to ceasefire agreements established at a prior African summit.
Reports indicate that Tshisekedi is now contemplating negotiations with the M23, a shift from his previous stance, prompted by changes in the balance of power after the group’s recent territorial gains. Tresor Kibangula from the Ebuteli Institute stated that external pressures and sanctions against Kagame are beginning to influence their negotiations positively.
In the context of broader regional dynamics, the M23 has claimed to represent the interests of Congolese Tutsis. It has been on a military offensive since January, capturing vital urban centers such as Goma and Bukavu. International sanctions on Rwanda, including those targeting military commanders allegedly supporting the M23, have exacerbated the situation, leading to denouncements from the group and further complicating peace efforts. The dynamics between Rwanda and the DRC remain complex, especially regarding military and diplomatic interactions, marking a critical period in addressing the conflicts in eastern DRC.
In summary, the recent meeting between Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame in Qatar represents a significant development in the ongoing security crisis in eastern DRC. Their commitment to an immediate ceasefire and the willingness to engage in dialogue indicates a potential shift towards de-escalation. However, external pressures, including international sanctions and changes in territorial control, continue to complicate the landscape, necessitating continued diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
