DRC: Towards a constructive dialogue leading to a ceasefire with Rwanda

President Félix Tshisekedi has embarked on a diplomatic initiative by participating in an extraordinary mini-summit focusing on peace and security in the Eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The summit, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, aims to facilitate a ceasefire between the DRC and the M23 rebel group, and explore potential dialogue between the heads of state of Rwanda and the DRC.

This initiative is crucial as the situation in the region has been deteriorating, with the risk of escalation in both the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regions.

The Angolan president, speaking on behalf of the mini-summit, emphasized the urgency of addressing the ongoing hostilities.

The discussions, taking place behind closed doors, involve each participant expressing their perspectives, with President Félix Tshisekedi leading the discourse.

A final communiqué is expected to encapsulate the outcomes of this high-stakes meeting.

This diplomatic effort occurs alongside the 37th ordinary session of the Conference of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Addis Ababa.

The overarching theme of this conference is «Educating an Africa Adapted to the 21st Century: Building Resilient Educational Systems for Increased Access to Education. Inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa».

The mini-summit, as reported by the Congolese presidential press, delves into critical issues such as the restoration of constructive and reconciliatory dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda, the immediate cessation of hostilities, the prompt withdrawal of the M23 from occupied territories, and the initiation of the demobilization process for this rebel group.

This diplomatic engagement marks President Félix Tshisekedi’s first foreign trip since securing re-election for a second term. The timing is particularly sensitive, given the ongoing conflicts between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Wazalendo, and M23 rebels, with support from the Rwandan army, in the vicinity of Sake, Masisi territory in the North Kivu province.

The international community watches closely as leaders navigate the complexities of regional peace and security.

Jean-Robert Tchandy