Congo’s government and the M23 rebel group will engage in peace talks on March 18 in Luanda, Angola. This follows intensified conflict and previous failed negotiations. The humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo has displaced over 7 million people, with M23 being supported by Rwandan forces.
The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group are scheduled to engage in peace talks on March 18, as confirmed by Angola, which is mediating the negotiations. The discussions will take place in the Angolan capital, Luanda, following a statement from Angolan President João Lourenço’s office, which announced the intent to commence “direct peace negotiations.”
The conflict in eastern Congo intensified in late January when M23, supported by Rwanda, captured the key city of Goma. Last month, they also seized control of Bukavu, the region’s second largest city. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi recently visited Angola to explore the opportunities for peace dialogues, as several earlier talks organized by Angola had failed when they excluded M23, focusing instead on their Rwandan allies.
M23 operates in a region contested by around 100 armed groups in eastern Congo, which is rich in mineral resources. The ongoing conflict has resulted in one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally, forcing over 7 million individuals to flee their homes. Additionally, United Nations experts have indicated that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops are backing the M23 rebels, who have expressed ambitions of advancing towards Kinshasa, the capital of Congo, located more than 1,000 miles away.
In conclusion, peace talks between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group are set to occur on March 18 in Luanda, Angola. This development follows prior unsuccessful negotiations that excluded the rebels and reflects ongoing efforts to address a complex conflict exacerbating a humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo. With extensive international involvement and mediation, the outcome of these talks will be pivotal for the region.
Original Source: www.elpasoinc.com
