Negotiations between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Rwanda-supported M23 rebel group are "progressing positively," according to a diplomatic source cited by AFP, as discussions persist between both parties in Qatar.
According to the same diplomatic source, who spoke to AFP on condition of anonymity, Congolese and M23 negotiators are collaborating with Qatari mediators in an effort to resolve the remaining challenges.
The M23 urged the restart of negotiations last week to address unresolved issues in the peace agreement brokered by the US and signed between Kinshasa and Kigali in Washington a month ago.
The treaty seeks to halt the hostilities that have resulted in thousands of deaths in eastern Congo. However, without the agreement from M23, the leading armed group active in the area, it is improbable that peace will be achieved.
Many people in the Democratic Republic of Congo view the agreement as a chance for the United States to obtain essential minerals used in global technology, particularly following their government's request for assistance from Washington in combating rebel forces. This comes as President Trump has sought access to these minerals amid ongoing competition between the United States and China for influence throughout Africa.
The M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, stands as the most notable armed faction in the conflict. Its significant advancement earlier this year resulted in bodies being left on the streets. With 7 million individuals displaced within Congo, the United Nations has described it as "one of Earth's most prolonged and intricate humanitarian crises."
Congo seeks security assistance from Washington to combat the rebels and potentially drive them out of Goma, Bukavu, and the surrounding areas where Rwanda reportedly has up to 4,000 troops stationed. Rwanda claims it is protecting its territorial interests rather than supporting M23.
The M23 rebels have indicated that they do not consider the agreement to be binding on them. Although involved in other ongoing peace talks, the rebel group has not been directly included in the planned peace deal.
Corneille Nangaa, the head of the Congo River Alliance (AFC), which includes M23, stated to the Associated Press in March that direct peace talks with Congo are contingent upon recognition of their grievances. He emphasized that "anything done about us without our involvement is against us."
Post a Comment