Somalia Endorses Qatar’s Mediation Efforts in DRC-Rwanda Negotiations

Somalia has backed Qatar’s mediation in talks between DRC and Rwanda, emphasizing it as a significant step toward peace. The discussions aim to ease tensions exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in eastern DRC. Both leaders committed to a ceasefire, although uncertainty surrounds the M23 rebels’ compliance.

Somalia has expressed its support for Qatari-led diplomatic efforts that facilitated discussions between the Presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda on Tuesday in Doha. These talks, mediated by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, aimed to reduce tensions between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame amid ongoing conflicts in eastern DRC.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs termed this initiative as “an important step toward fostering peace and stability in the eastern DRC and the wider region.” The Somali government lauded both leaders for their commitment to a prompt and unconditional ceasefire, reaffirming its support for the efforts of the people of DRC and Rwanda in achieving peace.

The Somali government also acknowledged Qatar’s vital role in fostering dialogue-driven conflict resolution. The ministry articulated, “We extend our appreciation to the State of Qatar for its role in promoting constructive dialogue and mediation to resolve conflicts through peaceful means.”

The meeting in Doha marked the initial in-person discussions between Kagame and Tshisekedi since the escalation of attacks by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern DRC. This armed group has been accused by Kinshasa of receiving backing from Rwanda, having seized Goma in January and subsequently advancing towards Bukavu in February.

Although both leaders advocated for an immediate ceasefire, it remains to be seen if the M23 rebels, who previously withdrew from peace discussions in Angola, will adhere to the new agreement.

In conclusion, Somalia’s endorsement of Qatar’s mediation efforts highlights the significance of diplomatic dialogue in addressing tensions between DRC and Rwanda. The support for a ceasefire from both presidents reflects a promising step towards peace, yet uncertainty remains regarding the compliance of the M23 rebels with the truce. This situation underscores the challenges involved in conflict resolution in the region.

Original Source: themedialine.org