The AU has welcomed talks between Congolese President Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Kagame in Doha, focusing on dialogue amid ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. The leaders called for an immediate ceasefire and emphasized African-led solutions to regional issues. This meeting followed the M23 rebels’ withdrawal from a planned meeting in Angola, amidst EU sanctions on some group members.
The African Union (AU) has expressed its approval of the recent discussions between Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, which took place in Doha amidst ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. AU Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf praised the commitment to dialogue and urged all parties to sustain the momentum of talks concerning the situation in the region.
During their meeting, the leaders issued a statement advocating for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire,” with specifics regarding the ceasefire’s implementation expected to be clarified shortly. This dialogue marks the first direct engagement between the two leaders following significant territorial advances made by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in the DRC.
The AU affirmed its commitment to supporting African-led solutions to regional challenges, stating that the Doha discussions contribute positively to existing regional mechanisms. M23 rebels, who have been accused of having Rwandan support—a claim Kigali refutes—pulled out of a scheduled meeting with DRC officials in Angola the same day the Doha talks occurred, coinciding with sanctions imposed by the European Union on various group leaders.
The eastern DRC is currently a battleground for over 200 armed groups, with M23 regaining offensive capabilities since 2022, leading to critical territorial losses including the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu. The ongoing conflict has resulted in one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally, displacing nearly 7 million people, including more than 3.5 million children, as reported by the United Nations.
The recent discussions between the leaders of the DRC and Rwanda in Doha signify a vital step toward dialogue and potential resolution regarding the escalating conflict in eastern DRC. The call for an immediate ceasefire and the emphasis on African-led solutions highlight the collective efforts towards stabilizing the region amidst a dire humanitarian situation. Continued engagement and cooperation among involved parties will be crucial in addressing the ongoing instability and humanitarian crises affecting millions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
