M23 Rebels to Engage in Peace Negotiations with Congolese Government in Angola

The M23 rebels and the Congolese government will meet for peace negotiations in Angola next week. The talks, facilitated by Angolan President João Lourenço, aim to ease tensions after recent escalations in eastern Congo. The involvement of Rwandan troops and the humanitarian crisis affecting millions underscore the importance of these discussions.

The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, captured significant regions in eastern Congo, escalating tensions this January. In response, the Congolese government is set to engage in peace negotiations in Angola next week. This initiative, mediated by Angolan President João Lourenço, aims to address the ongoing conflict and restore peace in the affected areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The negotiations will commence on March 18 in Luanda, Angola’s capital, as stated by President Lourenço’s office. The Angolan government has been working to mediate the conflict, particularly after the M23 rebels seized the strategic city of Goma and Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Congo. Congo’s President, Felix Tshisekedi, recently traveled to Angola for discussions regarding these peace talks.

The Angolan government formally announced the commencement of direct negotiations between the M23 and the Congolese government. Presidential spokesperson Tina Salama expressed optimism regarding this mediation effort, expressing the need for dialogue to foster peace and stability. This announcement follows previous cancellations of peace talks that focused more on Rwanda’s involvement rather than addressing the M23’s role.

Despite being one of around 100 armed groups in the region, M23 continues to exert considerable influence, complicating the humanitarian crisis impacting over seven million displaced individuals. The group has bolstered its strength with approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops and has threatened to advance towards Kinshasa.

The UN Human Rights Council is actively investigating reports of atrocities committed by both parties in the ongoing conflict, highlighting the dire humanitarian implications of the situation in eastern Congo.

In summary, the Congolese government is set to initiate peace talks with the M23 rebels in Angola, emphasizing the urgent need for resolution in a conflict exacerbated by an influx of Rwandan support. The negotiations are anticipated to address the grievances and humanitarian crisis resulting from the violence. Given the complex dynamics and previous cancellations of talks, this engagement represents a critical step toward achieving lasting peace in the region.

Original Source: www.euronews.com