The leaders of DR Congo and Rwanda have called for an immediate ceasefire in eastern DR Congo amid escalating conflict involving M23 rebels. Discussions in Qatar aimed to strengthen peace efforts, although it remains uncertain if the M23 will comply. Both nations have accused each other of various provocations, complicating the situation further.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame have jointly called for an immediate ceasefire in eastern DR Congo, during direct discussions held in Qatar. This meeting is significant as it marks the first engagement between the two leaders since the resurgence of M23 rebels, an offensive that has led to approximately 7,000 fatalities in the region since January.
The willingness of the M23 group to adhere to the ceasefire remains uncertain, especially since they declined to participate in peace negotiations in Angola earlier. DR Congo accuses Rwanda of providing military support to the M23, which Rwanda denies, asserting that its forces are only acting defensively against threats posed by the DR Congo army and associated militias.
Furthermore, DR Congo has alleged that Rwanda is illegally extracting resources from its eastern mineral deposits. Tensions escalated last December when failed peace talks in Angola resulted from Rwanda’s insistence that DR Congo engage the M23 directly. Subsequently, M23 rapidly gained control over key cities, including Goma and Bukavu.
In a joint statement from Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame underscored their commitment to an unconditional ceasefire, although the implementation and monitoring of such an agreement remain ambiguous. The statement emphasized the necessity of ongoing discussions initiated in Doha to establish a sustainable peace framework.
In this context, President Kagame highlighted that collaboration among all parties could expedite progress toward resolution. The meetings derive support from Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who is regarded as a strategic ally for both nations. Notably, the previous attempt to convene the DR Congo government and M23 for peace talks was thwarted when the rebels withdrew after the European Union announced sanctions against their leaders.
In summary, the recent call by Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with M23 rebels marks a pivotal moment in DR Congo’s efforts to stabilize the eastern region. Despite uncertainties surrounding the rebels’ compliance and Rwanda’s role in the conflict, the dialogue in Qatar signals a continued commitment towards seeking lasting peace. Future discussions will be essential to address the complexities of the situation and ensure effective conflict resolution.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
