Tshisekedi and Kagame Hold Talks in Qatar Amid DRC Conflict.
A crucial meeting took place on Tuesday between Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Paul Kagame of Rwanda, potentially marking a turning point in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. Hosted in Doha, Qatar, under the mediation of the Qatari government, the discussions focused on reinforcing a ceasefire and advancing dialogue within the framework of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
According to the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two leaders met face to face in Qatar, where they were received by Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During the discussions, all parties reaffirmed their dedication to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, aligning with the resolutions set forth in the joint EAC and SADC heads of state summit in February. The spokesperson for Tshisekedi, Tina Salama, later shared on social media that this ceasefire decision had been reached in Doha through the Amir’s initiative, as Qatar remains a strategic ally to both nations.
Meanwhile, Rwanda’s presidency echoed similar sentiments, stating that the meeting reaffirmed support for the EAC-SADC process as the primary mechanism to achieve a lasting solution to the DRC conflict. The discussions also underscored the necessity of addressing the presence of the FDLR genocidal forces while ensuring security guarantees for both Rwanda and the wider region. Additionally, the importance of engaging in direct political dialogue with the Congo River Alliance, which includes the M23 rebel group, was highlighted as a crucial step toward resolving the underlying issues in eastern DRC.
During the meeting, Kagame expressed optimism that collaborative efforts could accelerate progress. However, Rwanda’s official statement did not acknowledge any intention to withdraw its forces from DRC territory. The session was described as amicable by Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz.
The urgency of the discussions was further underscored by escalating tensions just a day before, when M23 rebels withdrew from scheduled negotiations with Kinshasa in Angola.
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This decision was in response to sanctions imposed by the European Union against M23 leaders, Rwandan Defense Force generals, and the CEO of Rwanda’s Mines, Petroleum, and Gas Board, who were accused of fueling the conflict for resource exploitation. Rebel leader Kizito Mihigo later stated on social media that while a ceasefire had been declared, neither side should take actions that would weaken the opposing party in the conflict.
Meanwhile, the reconsideration of the Congo River Alliance’s participation in the Luanda talks coincided with Rwanda severing diplomatic relations with Belgium. This move was prompted by Belgium’s allegations regarding Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict, claims that Kigali firmly rejected.
Tshisekedi and Kagame Hold Talks in Qatar Amid DRC Conflict.
