Tshisekedi and Kagame Engage in Crisis Talks in Qatar Regarding Eastern DRC
Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame met in Qatar to discuss the escalating security crisis in eastern DRC, where Rwanda is accused of supporting the M23 rebellion. This meeting, mediated by the emir, resulted in a mutual commitment to a ceasefire and highlighted the need for direct political dialogue to address the conflict’s root causes, amidst ongoing regional turmoil and sanctions.
On Tuesday, Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame held a crucial meeting in Qatar, mediated by the emir, aimed at addressing the ongoing security crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The discussions occurred amid allegations from Kinshasa against Kigali regarding its support for the M23 rebellion, which has captured significant territories in South and North Kivu provinces. Despite these accusations being supported by United Nations reports, the Rwandan government has denied involvement.
Various regional organizations have attempted to mediate the tense situation, culminating in this face-to-face encounter. Reports indicate the dialogue commenced at 4 PM in Doha (1 PM UTC) and lasted approximately 45 minutes, characterized as “cordial” due to the emir’s involvement. An earlier proposed meeting was cancelled at the last minute in January 2023, indicating the complexity of these negotiations.
Tresor Kibangula from the Ebuteli Institute for Political Analysis noted that Western sanctions are increasingly pressing on President Kagame. This situation has prompted Tshisekedi to reconsider negotiations with the M23, despite his prior dismissal of such dialogue, particularly following the group’s capture of key cities, Goma and Bukavu.
The meeting resulted in both presidents supporting a ceasefire after the failure of peace talks scheduled in Angola. A Congolese presidential source highlighted that details of this meeting were kept confidential until after Tshisekedi’s return to Kinshasa. A statement from the leaders emphasized their commitment to immediate and unconditional ceasefire terms established at a recent African summit.
Additionally, both leaders acknowledged the critical necessity for direct political dialogue aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the conflict in eastern DRC. A spokesperson for Kagame conveyed optimism that cooperative efforts among all parties could lead to rapid progress.
Earlier on the same day, peace negotiations in Angola were derailed when M23 withdrew from discussions, accusing “certain international institutions” of undermining peace through sanctions, particularly from the European Union. These sanctions have targeted several Rwandan military commanders, further complicating the situation.
The M23 group alleges its mission is to protect Congolese Tutsi interests and has captured the cities of Goma and Bukavu since January. A report by UN experts claims that Rwanda effectively controls the M23 and supports it with a military presence for the exploitation of valuable minerals in the region. Rwanda, however, denies any military assistance to M23, citing its need to defend against threats from FDLR, an armed group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide against Tutsis. The last formal talks between the Congolese government and M23 transpired in 2013.
The meeting between Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame in Qatar highlights a crucial diplomatic effort to mitigate the security crisis in eastern DRC, particularly amidst accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebellion. The expressed commitment to a ceasefire and the necessity for direct dialogue represent significant steps towards resolving ongoing tensions in the region. As the dynamics continue to evolve, particularly under the pressure of international sanctions, the pursuit of peace remains a complex challenge for both nations.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
