The Democratic Republic of Congo announced Sunday it will send a delegation to Angola on Tuesday for crucial peace talks.
These discussions aim to resolve the escalating conflict in eastern Congo involving Rwandan-backed M23 rebels.
Angola had previously stated direct negotiations between Congo and the M23 were set to begin in Luanda on March 18.
President Felix Tshisekedi had long resisted dialogue with the M23 but is reconsidering his stance following recent rebel gains and diminishing regional support.
Presidency spokesperson Tina Salama confirmed Congo’s participation but did not specify the delegation’s composition.
The M23 acknowledged Angola’s invitation via spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka on X but did not immediately confirm their attendance.
Following the announcement of talks, the M23 issued demands, urging Tshisekedi to publicly commit to direct negotiations.
Angola has been actively mediating to secure a lasting ceasefire and ease tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which faces accusations of supporting the Tutsi-led M23, allegations Rwanda firmly denies.
The decades-long conflict in eastern Congo stems from the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition for the region’s extensive mineral wealth.
The conflict has intensified this year, with the M23 seizing unprecedented territory, including key cities and numerous smaller areas.
The Congolese government reports at least 7,000 deaths since January, while the U.N. estimates over 600,000 people have been displaced since November.
