Religious leaders in the DRC commend Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço for mediating peace talks with M23 rebels, commencing on March 18 in Luanda. They express hope for inclusive dialogue and national consensus for the country’s recovery amidst ongoing conflict in the Great Lakes region.
Religious leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) expressed their appreciation for Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço’s initiative to mediate peace talks between conflicting parties in the DRC, particularly in the eastern region. They commend the President’s commitment to fostering dialogue within the Great Lakes region amidst ongoing conflict.
On March 18, direct peace negotiations involving the DRC and M23 rebels will commence in Luanda, Angola. The announcement underscores a significant diplomatic effort aimed at addressing the turmoil in the region.
In a communique shared via Facebook, the Presidents of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC) voiced their support for President Lourenço’s leadership and mediation efforts.
Archbishop Fulgence Muteba Mugalu and Rev. Andre Bokodua characterized the upcoming talks as a precursor to a larger, inclusive dialogue intended to achieve national consensus and accelerate the peace process and recovery in the DRC. They assert that this diplomatic effort is crucial for the nation’s future stability.
In conclusion, the support from religious leaders in the DRC for President Lourenço’s mediation efforts highlights a collaborative approach to achieving peace in the region. The scheduled talks represent a hopeful step towards national dialogue and reconciliation, underscoring the importance of inclusive solutions to conflicts. The engagement of religious and political leaders may facilitate a path towards stability and recovery in the DRC.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
