Tshisekedi and Kagame Engage in Crisis Talks in Qatar on Eastern DRC Security

Presidents Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame met in Qatar for crisis talks regarding the security situation in eastern DRC, amid allegations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebellion. This meeting, mediated by the emir of Qatar, resulted in a commitment to an immediate ceasefire and discussions on political dialogue among parties involved. The talks were prompted by significant changes in the conflict dynamics, including recent military advances by the M23.

On Tuesday, February 28, 2023, President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda convened in Qatar for discussions aimed at addressing the ongoing security crisis in eastern DRC. Mediated by the emir of Qatar, this face-to-face meeting follows persistent allegations from Kinshasa that Rwanda is providing support to the M23 rebel group, which has captured significant territories in North and South Kivu provinces. These claims, substantiated by several United Nations reports, are vehemently denied by Kigali.

The meeting commenced at 4 PM local time in Doha and lasted approximately 45 minutes, characterized by a cordial atmosphere largely facilitated by the emir. Previous efforts to arrange talks between the leaders had been made, with a particular meeting in January 2023 cancelled shortly before it was to take place. According to Tresor Kibangula from the Ebuteli Institute for Political Analysis, there is increased Western pressure on Kagame, while Tshisekedi appears to be more open to negotiations with the M23, prompted by recent changes in the balance of power following the group’s capture of key cities such as Goma and Bukavu.

Both leaders have committed to a ceasefire following the meeting. This dialogue occurred shortly after an earlier attempt at peace talks in Angola was unsuccessful. A representative close to the Congolese presidency indicated that the nature of the discussions was confidential until Tshisekedi’s return. Official communications confirmed that the heads of state reiterated their dedication to an immediate ceasefire, aligning with commitments made at a recent African summit.

Moreover, the discussions focused on the necessity for direct political dialogue among all involved parties to confront the fundamental issues fueling the conflict in Eastern DRC. Rwandan officials remarked on the potential for swift progress if cooperation is prioritized among all parties. Following the meeting, it was communicated that an immediate and unconditional ceasefire had been reached, with implementation specifics to be finalized shortly.

Earlier in the day, peace talks in Angola faced cancellation after the M23’s withdrawal, during which the group criticized external sanctions imposed by the European Union as detrimental to peace negotiations. The M23 accused “certain international institutions” of sabotaging efforts toward dialogue through these sanctions, which have recently targeted several Rwandan military leaders purportedly linked to the ongoing conflict.

The M23 claims to represent the interests of Congolese Tutsis and has been linked to a series of violent confrontations that have accounted for over 7,000 fatalities since their resurgence in January. While Rwanda authorities refute claims of military aid to the M23, the situation remains tense. The UN has suggested that Rwanda is significantly involved with the group and maintains a military presence in the DRC with interests in exploiting the region’s mineral resources, further complicating the conflict.

Historical context reveals that the last prior dialogue between the DRC government and M23 occurred in 2013, highlighting the urgent need for renewed engagement amidst escalating violence and humanitarian repercussions.

In summary, the recent meeting between Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame in Qatar signifies a critical diplomatic effort aimed at resolving the security crises in eastern DRC exacerbated by the M23 rebellion. Both leaders expressed commitment to a ceasefire and emphasized the importance of political dialogue. As tensions persist, particularly with the backdrop of external sanctions and regional instability, the ongoing discussions reflect an essential step towards fostering peace and stability in the affected regions.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr