Kigali, Republic of Rwanda – Rwanda expressed hope that the agreement recently brokered by the United States would contribute to advancing the peace process in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo,
This comes after years of clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 movement,
which is one of the most influential armed groups in the region.
The Rwandan Foreign Minister stressed that the new agreement represents
“a real opportunity that must be seized” to end the ongoing cycle of violence.
He noted that the past few weeks have witnessed a degree
of relative stability along the front lines, without any expansion in areas of control.
This was considered a positive indicator that paves the way for
a political and security environment conducive to talks.
Receive external support
Despite the positive atmosphere, tensions remain between the two sides.
Congo accuses the armed movement of receiving external support
that contributes to destabilizing the eastern provinces.
While Rwanda denies providing any direct support,
it maintains that the presence of its forces near the border is a “defensive measure”.
Which aims to protect civilians from threats by extremist groups such as the FDLR,
Kigali accuses her of being linked to the remaining elements involved in the Rwandan genocide.
The agreement, brokered by Washington, includes political, security, and economic provisions.
These include supporting development projects in conflict-affected areas,
and stimulating investment in eastern Congo, which is rich in strategic minerals such as cobalt and gold.
In addition to arrangements for a ceasefire and creating conditions
for the return of refugees, mechanisms were put in place to disarm armed groups.
Congo: Commitment to the peace agreement
The Congolese government, for its part, affirmed its full commitment to the peace process.
But she stressed the need for any foreign forces to withdraw from her territory,
and for all forms of support for the militants to cease.
Considering that the actual implementation of the agreement’s
provisions is the true criterion for measuring its success.
This agreement is seen as a rare opportunity to break the cycle
of chronic conflict in eastern Congo.
However, its success depends on the commitment of all parties
to serious implementation and political will.
This is in addition to international monitoring that ensures respect
for security and development commitments.
