President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have jointly called for an “immediate ceasefire” in eastern DR Congo following their direct discussions in Qatar.
This meeting marks the first encounter between the two leaders since the M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, intensified their offensive in the area, where local authorities report that 7,000 individuals have lost their lives since January.
It remains uncertain whether the M23 will respond positively to the ceasefire request, especially after the group declined to participate in peace negotiations in Angola on Tuesday.
The DR Congo government accuses Rwanda of providing arms and military support to the M23 rebels during the conflict. Despite claims from both the United Nations and the United States, Rwanda has denied any involvement with the M23.
Rwanda asserts that its military actions are in self-defense against the Congolese army and associated militias. Additionally, DR Congo accuses Rwanda of illegally exploiting its mineral resources in the eastern region, a claim that Rwanda also refutes.
Last December, peace negotiations facilitated by Angola fell apart when Rwanda insisted that the DR Congo government engage directly with the M23.
In the past two months, the rebel group has made significant advances, capturing two strategic cities—Goma and Bukavu.
A joint statement issued by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry on Tuesday indicated that the two presidents reiterated their commitment to an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire, although details regarding its implementation and monitoring remain unclear.
The heads of state subsequently recognized the importance of continuing the discussions that began in Doha to lay a strong foundation for enduring peace, as stated.
The meeting caught many off guard, given the two leaders’ previously rigid stances on the conflict, often engaging in public disputes. While confirming the discussions in Qatar, the Rwandan presidency emphasized in a separate statement that direct negotiations between DR Congo and M23 are essential for tackling the underlying issues of the conflict.
President Kagame conveyed his optimism that with “all parties collaborating, progress can be made more swiftly.”
Tina Salama, the spokesperson for the DR Congo presidency, mentioned on X that the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, initiated the talks, referring to the Gulf nation as a “strategic ally” of both African countries.
In an official statement, the Congolese government indicated that this meeting represents the initial step toward establishing a foundation for lasting peace in the unstable eastern region, suggesting the possibility of further discussions.
This gathering of the two leaders followed a previous unsuccessful attempt to convene peace talks between the DR Congo government and M23 rebels, who withdrew on Monday after the European Union imposed sanctions on their leadership.
