Tshisekedi and Kagame Conduct Crisis Talks in Qatar Regarding Eastern DRC

Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame met in Qatar to discuss the security crisis in eastern DRC, prompted by Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebellion. The leaders agreed on the need for an immediate ceasefire and expressed a shared commitment to finding a peaceful resolution, amidst evolving regional tensions and international sanctions.

On Tuesday, Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame engaged in crisis talks in Qatar, mediated by the emir, to address the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the M23 rebellion, which has captured significant territories in South and North Kivu provinces, claims that multiple UN reports have validated, yet Kigali denies.

The meeting, which commenced at 4 PM local time in Doha and lasted approximately 45 minutes, proceeded in a “cordial” manner, aided by the emir’s intervention following a previously canceled meeting in January 2023. According to Tresor Kibangula from the Ebuteli Institute, the influence of Western sanctions on Kagame may have prompted this dialogue, while Tshisekedi’s willingness to negotiate with M23 is a shift from his previous stance.

Following their discussions, both leaders advocated for an immediate ceasefire, especially in light of the unsuccessful peace talks in Angola. A source close to the Congolese presidency noted that the meeting remained confidential until Tshisekedi’s return to Kinshasa. They reaffirmed commitment to a ceasefire as agreed upon in an African summit the previous month, ultimately fostering confidence for a stable future in the region.

Statements from both presidencies highlighted the necessity of “direct political dialogue” among all involved parties to effectively address the conflict’s root causes in eastern DRC. Kagame’s spokesperson confirmed the agreement for an immediate ceasefire, with implementation details set to be determined soon.

Earlier that day, the planned peace discussions in Angola were aborted after M23 withdrew, alleging that international sanctions hindered peace efforts. M23 condemned Kinshasa’s aggressive rhetoric, claiming it obstructed their participation in dialogue, amidst EU sanctions imposed on Rwandan military leaders linked to militia support in DRC.

Since January, the M23 has captured key cities such as Goma and Bukavu, leading to extensive casualties. UN experts reported Rwandan control over the M23, allegedly with around 4,000 troops involved to exploit regional resources. Rwanda refutes claims of military support for the M23, citing threats from the FDLR group operating in the eastern DRC, triggered by the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

The pivotal meeting between Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame in Qatar represents a significant stride toward resolving the ongoing crisis in eastern DRC. The discussions centered on the necessity of an unconditional ceasefire and underscore the importance of direct dialogues involving all parties to tackle the conflict’s fundamental issues. The backdrop of Western sanctions and shifting power dynamics indicates a need for cooperation and diplomatic engagement moving forward.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr