DRC Crisis: Promising Discussions Between Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi in Qatar

President Kagame and President Tshisekedi met in Qatar to discuss deescalation of tensions in Eastern DRC. They emphasized support for EAC-SADC processes and the importance of addressing security threats from FDLR. Direct dialogue with AFC/M23 was highlighted as essential. Both leaders expressed optimism for progress and stability in the region, with support from Qatar.

On Tuesday, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) convened in Qatar, under the auspices of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The purpose of this meeting was to address escalating tensions and seek peace in Eastern DRC.

The leaders reaffirmed their support for the EAC-SADC processes as a foundational approach for resolving the conflict in the DRC. They highlighted the importance of addressing the threats posed by the FDLR genocidal forces and ensuring security guarantees for both Rwanda and the surrounding region.

As reported by the President’s Office, the discussions included the critical need for direct political dialogue with the AFC/M23. This dialogue is viewed as instrumental in tackling the underlying issues fueling the conflict in Eastern DRC.

President Kagame articulated his optimism, stating that collective efforts among the involved parties could accelerate progress. He extended his gratitude to Sheikh Tamim for facilitating constructive dialogue aimed at establishing lasting peace in DRC and the wider region.

A joint statement from Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted the advancements made during the Luanda and Nairobi discussions, along with a summit conducted by EAC and SADC in February 2025. The leaders reiterated a commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire as established at this summit.

Furthermore, the leaders acknowledged Qatar’s pivotal role in organizing the meeting, which was seen as instrumental in fostering trust toward a shared vision of security and stability for the DRC and its neighboring areas. The meeting has been received with cautious optimism, as many social media users expressed hope for a resolution to the prolonged conflict affecting the Great Lakes Region.

The recent meeting between Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi in Qatar signifies a critical step towards deescalating tensions in the DRC. The leaders’ commitment to dialogue and peace reflects a collaborative approach, aiming to address both immediate concerns and root causes of the conflict. This engagement, supported by Qatar, instills cautious optimism for a sustainable resolution in the region.

Original Source: www.ktpress.rw