The African Union commends discussions in Doha between Congolese and Rwandan leaders, emphasizing the need for dialogue amid ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. The leaders called for an immediate ceasefire following the M23 rebels’ recent actions. Support for African-led solutions is underlined by AU Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.
The African Union (AU) has expressed its support for the discussions that took place in Doha between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame amid ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The meetings are significant as they mark the leaders’ first direct talks since the emergence of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who have recently captured key cities in the region.
AU Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf lauded both nations for their dedication to dialogue and encouraged all involved parties to sustain the current momentum. He emphasized the AU’s commitment to promoting African-led solutions for regional issues, noting that the recent talks align with these objectives and bolster ongoing regional initiatives.
During their meeting in Doha, Tshisekedi and Kagame jointly advocated for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. They indicated that further details on its execution would be forthcoming. This meeting followed an incident where M23 representatives withdrew from an anticipated meeting with DRC officials in Angola, subsequent to the European Union imposing sanctions on prominent M23 leaders, including their chief, Bertrand Bisimwa, as well as Rwandan military officials.
The M23 group is one among over two hundred armed factions vying for control in the mineral-rich eastern DRC, where resources such as cobalt are abundant. Allegations that Rwanda supports the M23 have been put forth by the Congolese government and the United States, claims which Rwanda categorically denies. After years of dormancy, the M23 has rekindled its activities, including the capture of the key city of Goma and Bukavu earlier this year.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in one of the largest humanitarian crises globally, affecting nearly 7 million individuals, including over 3.5 million children, as reported by the United Nations.
In conclusion, the recent Doha talks between the leaders of the DRC and Rwanda represent a critical step towards addressing ongoing conflicts in eastern DRC. The AU’s support for these discussions highlights the importance of dialogue in resolving regional tensions, especially amid accusations of foreign involvement in local conflicts. The call for a ceasefire underscores the urgent need for peace in a region grappling with severe humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
