Somalia has endorsed Qatar’s mediation in talks between DRC and Rwanda, aiming to ease tensions. The meeting, facilitated by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, resulted in a commitment from both presidents to a ceasefire. Somalia praised the initiative as a significant step towards peace, acknowledging Qatar’s role in promoting dialogue. However, the adherence of rebel groups like M23 to the ceasefire remains uncertain.
Somalia has expressed its support for the diplomatic endeavors led by Qatar, which facilitated a meeting between the Presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda on Tuesday in Doha. These discussions, overseen by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, aimed to alleviate tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC involving DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended this initiative, stating it is “an important step toward fostering peace and stability in the eastern DRC and the wider region.” The Somali government recognized the commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire made by both leaders, reaffirming its solidarity with the people of DRC and Rwanda in their quest for peace.
Further, Somalia acknowledged Qatar’s significant role in promoting dialogue as a means of conflict resolution. The Ministry remarked, “We extend our appreciation to the State of Qatar for its role in promoting constructive dialogue and mediation to resolve conflicts through peaceful means.”
This meeting in Doha represented the first direct discussions between Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi following the escalation of attacks by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern DRC. The armed group, which Kinshasa accuses of receiving support from Rwanda, had captured Goma in January and advanced into Bukavu by February.
Although both leaders called for an immediate ceasefire, there is uncertainty regarding the M23 rebels’ compliance with this ceasefire agreement, as they previously withdrew from peace talks held in Angola.
In summary, Somalia’s endorsement of Qatar’s mediation efforts between the DRC and Rwanda signifies a proactive stance in regional diplomacy aimed at fostering peace. The recent discussions in Doha highlight the commitment of both DRC and Rwandan leaders to achieving stability, albeit with concerns regarding the compliance of armed groups like the M23 rebels. Qatar’s role is crucial in facilitating these constructive dialogues, which are essential for resolving conflicts through peaceful means.
Original Source: themedialine.org
