Congo to Engage in Peace Talks with M23 Rebels Amid Ongoing Conflict

The Democratic Republic of Congo will partake in peace talks with M23 rebels in Angola, following prior resistance to negotiations. The escalating conflict has led to severe humanitarian issues, prompting Angola’s mediation efforts. The U.S. is exploring economic partnerships contingent on stabilizing the region.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced its participation in peace talks scheduled for Tuesday in Angola with the M23 rebel group, which is backed by Rwanda. Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, communicated that a delegation from Congo is currently in Luanda for these discussions. Previously, Tshisekedi had been opposed to direct negotiations with the rebels.

On Monday, M23 confirmed that their own delegation is present in Luanda, with spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka making the announcement via social media. The unrest in Eastern Congo intensified beginning in January when the M23 rebels took control of the strategic city of Goma, followed by Bukavu in February.

Angola has played a mediating role in this conflict, and it was announced last week that it will facilitate direct peace negotiations between Congo and the M23 group. Prior peace talks between Congo and Rwanda were abruptly canceled in December after Rwanda insisted on a dialogue arrangement between Congo and the M23 as a pre-condition.

President Tshisekedi previously expressed firm opposition to negotiating with the M23, stating, “A dialogue with a terrorist group like the M23 is a red line that we will never cross.” The conflict involves around 100 armed groups competing for resources in Eastern Congo, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis that has displaced over seven million individuals.

Rwanda is reportedly offering approximately 4,000 troops to support the M23 rebels, who have threatened to advance toward Congo’s capital, Kinshasa. The United Nations Human Rights Council recently initiated a probe into the atrocities committed, including serious allegations of rape and extrajudicial killings by both factions.

Additionally, the U.S. State Department indicated potential openness to establishing mining partnerships in Congo, confirming that exploratory discussions have commenced. Following a meeting with U.S. special envoy to Congo, Rep. Ronny Jackson, President Tshisekedi emphasized the importance of peace for attracting American investments into the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s engagement in peace talks with the M23 rebels represents a significant shift in the ongoing conflict. With Angola acting as a mediator, the outcome of these discussions is crucial for stabilizing the region and addressing the humanitarian crisis affecting millions. The international community’s involvement, alongside potential U.S. economic partnerships, may also play a pivotal role in fostering long-term peace and development in Congo.

Original Source: www.winnipegfreepress.com