The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced its decision to send a delegation to Angola on Tuesday for peace talks with Rwandan-backed M23 rebels.
This move aims to resolve the escalating conflict in eastern Congo, which has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of people.
The talks, scheduled to begin in Luanda on March 18, will be mediated by Angola.
President Felix Tshisekedi, who had previously ruled out dialogue with M23, appears to be changing his stance after a series of defeats and waning regional support.
M23 has acknowledged receipt of Angola’s invitation but has not confirmed its participation.
The rebel group has made several demands, including a request for Tshisekedi to publicly express his commitment to direct negotiations.
The conflict in eastern Congo is rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the struggle for control of Congo’s vast mineral resources. This year has seen a significant escalation, with M23 gaining control of key cities and localities.
According to the Congolese government, at least 7,000 people have died in the fighting since January, and over 600,000 have been displaced since November.
Angolan President Joao Lourenco has urged all parties to cease hostilities to create a conducive climate for the talks.
