Kagame and Tshisekedi Scheduled to Discuss DR Congo Conflict in Luanda

Presidents Kagame of Rwanda and Tshisekedi of DR Congo will meet in Luanda on December 15, 2024, facilitated by Angola’s President Lourenço. This meeting aims to find a long-term solution to the eastern DR Congo conflict. The announcement follows recent discussions between foreign ministers on peace strategies amidst ongoing tensions and accusations between the two nations. U.S. President Biden is also scheduled to visit Angola soon, focusing on enhancing their bilateral relationship and security matters.

President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) are set to meet on December 15, 2024, in Luanda to discuss the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo. This assembly has been facilitated by Angola’s President João Lourenço, who was appointed by the African Union as a mediator in this matter. After months of negotiations, this meeting date has now been confirmed.

The Angolan presidential office indicated that this summit aims to seek a long-term resolution to the hostilities in eastern DR Congo. As of now, neither the Rwandan nor the DR Congolese government has issued a statement regarding the upcoming meeting or the involvement of their respective leaders. Lourenço’s role as a mediator has been endorsed by the African Union for over a year.

The recent announcement follows a meeting last week where foreign ministers from both countries agreed on a document outlining necessary actions for a peace plan between DR Congo and Rwanda. However, it remains uncertain whether new peace agreements will be signed during the forthcoming meeting, which seems to be a significant step in the peace discussions.

Kagame and Tshisekedi last met regarding this issue in September 2022, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron during a United Nations General Assembly session. Furthermore, DR Congo has accused Rwanda of aiding the M23 rebel group, while Rwanda counters by accusing DR Congo of supporting the FDLR rebels opposed to its government. Both accusations have been denied by each party, despite being corroborated by United Nations experts.

Tshisekedi has consistently declared his unwillingness to negotiate with M23, asserting it is supported by Rwanda, and Rwanda has likewise refused to engage with FDLR, which it deems a group responsible for the Rwandan genocide. During his recent campaign, Tshisekedi expressed strong remarks towards Rwanda, stating that their dialogue could end only before divine judgment. However, post-election, he moderated his tone, suggesting he is ready to halt any inclination towards war in order to pave the way for peace.

Before the meeting of the two presidents, United States President Joe Biden is expected to arrive in Angola for a 72-hour visit. This trip marks his first journey to sub-Saharan Africa during his presidency and is likely to be among his last endeavors as he nears the end of his term. Biden is expected to engage in discussions with President Lourenço regarding the enhancement of U.S.-Angolan relations, particularly focusing on the substantial investment aimed at renewing the Lobito Corridor, a 1,300-kilometer railway from Lobito to DR Congo, which is essential for the transportation of valuable minerals.

The upcoming meeting between Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi signifies a crucial attempt to address the persistent conflict in eastern DR Congo, with mediation efforts led by Angola’s President João Lourenço. Despite longstanding tensions and mutual accusations, both leaders are now poised to negotiate potential agreements aimed at peace. These discussions come amidst a broader context of international engagement, including an imminent visit from U.S. President Joe Biden, highlighting the geopolitical interests at stake.

Original Source: www.bbc.com