DR Congo Government Engages in Peace Talks with M23 Rebels in Angola

The DRC government will engage in peace talks with M23 rebels in Angola. President Tshisekedi, previously against negotiations, is now represented by a delegation. M23 has captured key locations in eastern DRC, escalating conflict. The talks aim to address humanitarian needs amid foreign military support. The US is open to exploring mining partnerships in DRC as part of broader security discussions.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government is set to engage in peace talks in Luanda, Angola, with the M23 rebel group, which has received support from Rwanda. DRC’s President Felix Tshisekedi, who previously resisted direct negotiations, is represented by a delegation at these discussions scheduled for Tuesday, according to spokesperson Tina Salama.

M23 has taken control of important areas in eastern DRC, particularly in mineral-rich regions. Recently, M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka confirmed the group’s participation at the peace talks in Luanda. The conflict intensified earlier this year, with rebel forces capturing the strategic city of Goma in January and Bukavu in February.

Angola has been mediating the ongoing conflict, facilitating direct negotiations that were originally postponed. President Tshisekedi expressed reluctance to engage with M23, stating that any dialogue with “a terrorist group like the M23 is a red line that we will never cross” during a speech to the diplomatic corps on January 18.

The eastern DRC region is affected by numerous armed groups, with M23 among the most prominent. This ongoing conflict has resulted in over seven million displaced individuals, contributing to one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crises. UN experts have reported that M23 is backed by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, with the rebels threatening to advance towards the capital, Kinshasa.

In addition to the conflict, the UN Human Rights Council has initiated investigations into human rights abuses by both parties, including allegations of rape and summary executions. Last week, the US State Department indicated a willingness to explore a mining partnership in DRC, with preliminary talks already underway.

On Sunday, President Tshisekedi met with the US special envoy to DRC, Ronny Jackson, to discuss security and economic cooperation. Jackson emphasized the necessity for peace to attract US investments in the DRC’s resources, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to stabilize the country.

In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo is poised to participate in significant peace talks in Angola concerning the M23 rebel group. With the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the involvement of foreign troops, this dialogue represents a crucial step towards addressing the conflict. The United States is also exploring economic partnerships, reinforcing the connection between peace and investment in DRC.

Original Source: morningstaronline.co.uk