DR CONGO – A joint statement on Wednesday in Qatar confirmed the DR Congo and M23 ceasefire agreement had been reached and the two sides decided to immediately cease hostilities throughout the talks until conclusion.
“By mutual agreement, both parties reaffirm their commitment to an immediate cessation of hostilities, the categorical rejection of all hate speech and intimidation, and call on all local communities to respect these commitments.” The statement said.
M23 is said to be backed by Rwanda, but Rwanda’s president Paul Kagame has always refuted these claims as baseless.
The DRC Ceasefire Brings Hope in the War-torn Nation
Earlier this month, M23, which had occupied several territories of DRC withdrew from Walikale, stating that this was a good-will gesture before the talks were held, although the withdrawal was later refuted with statements that fighting was still ongoing in Walikale.
The DRC government has had a very strong rejection of holding any talks with M23, and has always referred to it as a terrorist group, but with the mediation of Qatar, each side softened its tone towards its opponent.
While no future date for further talks have been announced, “both parties agree to uphold the aforementioned commitments, which will pave the way for a constructive dialogue to restore lasting peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the region.”
