Tshisekedi and Kagame Engage in Crisis Talks in Qatar on DRC Conflict
Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame held crisis talks in Qatar to address the security crisis in eastern DRC, amid accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebellion. The meeting resulted in a commitment to an immediate ceasefire and emphasized the need for direct political dialogue. This development follows failed peace talks in Angola and ongoing international sanctions against M23. Both leaders aim to collaboratively resolve the conflict’s underlying issues.
On Tuesday, Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame convened in Qatar, mediated by the emir, to address the ongoing security crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This meeting was prompted by accusations from Kinshasa that Kigali supports the M23 rebellion, which has gained control over significant territories in the South and North Kivu provinces. These allegations have been corroborated by multiple United Nations reports; however, Kigali has consistently denied them.
The discussion commenced at 4 PM in Doha, lasting approximately 45 minutes, and was described as “cordial,” facilitated by the emir’s involvement. In January 2023, a prior attempt to organize a meeting between the two presidents had failed at the last moment. Recent statements from the Ebuteli Institute for Political Analysis suggested that external pressures, including Western sanctions, are influencing Kagame’s stance, while Tshisekedi is now more amenable to negotiating with M23, given the shifting dynamics of power following the group’s advances.
The leaders of Rwanda and the DRC both underscored their commitment to an immediate ceasefire, coinciding with unsuccessful peace talks in Angola. A source from the Congolese presidency noted that the meeting’s details were kept confidential until Tshisekedi’s return to Kinshasa. According to a joint declaration from the presidents, they reaffirmed their dedication to achieving an unconditional ceasefire, building upon a consensus formed during a previous African summit.
Additionally, the importance of “direct political dialogue” among all conflicting parties was stressed to address the underlying causes of the conflict in eastern DRC. Kagame’s spokesperson highlighted his belief that collaborative efforts could expedite progress. Social media updates from both leaders indicated an agreement for an immediate ceasefire, with plans to finalize implementation details in the coming days.
Earlier on the same day, peace discussions in Angola were disrupted when M23 officials withdrew abruptly, citing sabotage from international entities including the European Union, which had imposed sanctions on its members. They contended that these sanctions hinder direct dialogue and made progress unattainable. The group indicated their inability to participate in negotiations under the current circumstances.
M23 claims to advocate for the rights of Congolese Tutsis and has captured key cities, resulting in significant casualties. UN reports highlight Rwanda’s alleged control over M23 and its backing by military forces, although Rwanda refutes claims of providing military support and instead cites threats from the FDLR group, linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide of Tutsis. The last formal discussions between the Congolese government and the M23 occurred in 2013.
In summary, the recent meeting between Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame in Qatar marks a significant development in addressing the security challenges in eastern DRC. Their mutual commitment to an immediate ceasefire, amidst accusations and international sanctions, reflects a willingness to engage in dialogue. The situation remains complex, with underlying factors contributing to ongoing tensions, necessitating continued diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
