Congo and M23 Rebels to Begin Peace Talks in Angola on March 18

The Democratic Republic of Congo will engage in direct peace talks with M23 rebels on 18th March in Angola, amid rising tensions and violence. Angola has offered to mediate the discussions, which are critical due to the humanitarian crisis and regional instability. The situation is exacerbated by historical conflicts connected to resource control and the involvement of neighboring countries.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels will commence direct peace talks in Luanda, Angola, on 18th March, as confirmed by a statement from Angola’s presidency. The Angolan government has been working to mediate a sustainable ceasefire and reduce tensions with neighboring Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the M23, although Rwanda has denied these claims.

Angola declared its initiative to facilitate these discussions on Tuesday. The Congolese government has historically declined to engage with M23, having only acknowledged the Angolan proposal without committing to participation. Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, indicated that while the government received an invitation from Angola, it has yet to confirm attendance at the talks.

M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa expressed confidence in successfully prompting the Congolese government to negotiate, referring to the talks as “the only civilised option to resolve the current crisis” that has escalated since January. The group has captured two major urban areas in eastern Congo, exacerbating ongoing conflicts stemming from historical tensions with Rwanda and battles for control over the region’s rich mineral wealth.

The Congolese government estimates that over 7,000 individuals have died in the recent violence, and the UN reports that at least 600,000 people have been displaced since November. The presence of troops from South Africa, Burundi, and Uganda in eastern Congo sparks concerns of a potential regional war, reminiscent of the devastating conflicts of the late 20th century that resulted in millions of casualties. Eastern Congo is strategically significant, housing abundant resources such as coltan, cobalt, and lithium that are vital for advancing global technology and green energy efforts.

In summary, direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels are set to begin on 18th March in Angola, aiming to mitigate escalating tensions and violence in the region. The situation remains critical as both parties navigate the complexities of their historical conflicts and the pressing humanitarian crisis, highlighted by significant loss of life and widespread displacement. The potential repercussions of these discussions extend beyond Congo, possibly affecting regional stability and resource control.

Original Source: sightmagazine.com.au