Qatar acted as a mediator on Tuesday for discussions involving the presidents of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in its efforts to stabilize tensions in eastern Congo. The talks, which aimed to ease the conflict, took place between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and were hosted by Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The move comes in the wake of the withdrawal of the M23 rebel group from peace talks in Angola just one day prior. The M23 rebels, accused of receiving support from Rwanda, had launched an extensive military campaign in eastern Congo. Rwanda has consistently denied allegations of supporting the M23 rebels.

The meeting was considered fruitful, with the leaders expressing a commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as agreed upon at an African summit last month. They thanked Qatar for helping to foster confidence in achieving a secure and stable future for the DRC and the region.

The joint statement did not go into detail regarding how the ceasefire would be implemented or monitored. The M23 announced their withdrawal from the talks in response to EU sanctions targeting the group and Rwandan officials. Prior to this, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi had been open to engaging in dialogue with the M23, despite years of fighting. The rebel group captured Goma and Bukavu earlier in the year, challenging international and regional peace initiatives.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/presidents-of-rwanda-and-dr-congo-hold-talks-in-qatar/a-71968893?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf