Direct Peace Talks Between DRC and M23 Rebels Scheduled for Next Week

The DRC and M23 rebels will engage in direct peace talks starting March 18, mediated by Angola. President Tshisekedi’s government has received an invitation to negotiate, though participation is uncertain. The ongoing conflict has caused significant casualties and displacement, with fears of wider regional warfare looming.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Rwanda-supported M23 rebels are set to initiate direct peace negotiations next week, as confirmed by mediator Angola. According to a statement from President João Lourenço’s office, these talks are scheduled to begin on March 18 in Luanda, Angola.

President Félix Tshisekedi’s spokesperson reported that an invitation for the discussions was received from Angola. Nevertheless, the response regarding participation in the negotiations remains unclear from the DRC government. Angola has previously mediated conflicts in Eastern DRC, particularly during the recent escalation involving the capture of Goma by M23 rebels.

M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa stated on social media that these negotiations are essential, deeming them the “only civilized option” to address the prolonged crisis. The ongoing conflict in the DRC, fueled by the struggle for control of vast mineral resources, has resulted in over 7,000 fatalities since January.

The United Nations refugee agency reported that the armed conflict has led to nearly 80,000 displaced individuals, with 61,000 seeking refuge in neighboring Burundi. Various armed groups, including M23, compete for influence in this mineral-rich region, raising concerns about a large-scale regional conflict reminiscent of the Congo wars in the late 20th century.

In summary, the impending talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels represent a significant move towards addressing the ongoing conflict. With Angola facilitating the discussions, there is potential for peace, albeit amid a backdrop of heightened violence and displacement. The international community watches closely, given the implications on regional stability and the humanitarian crisis at hand.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com