Rwanda has expressed support for the M23 rebel group's decision to withdraw from the strategic mining town of Walikale in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and for the DRC's commitment to halting hostilities as part of ongoing peace efforts.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Rwandan government welcomed the M23 rebels' announcement to reposition their forces from Walikale in support of peace initiatives in the region. Rwanda also praised the DRC's decision to suspend offensive operations by its forces (FARDC) and pro-government militias (Wazalendo), which aligns with broader peace efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
"Rwanda is committed to working with all parties to ensure adherence to commitments, particularly in the context of the joint EAC-SADC Summit process and other initiatives which pave the way towards a lasting political and security settlement for the region," the statement read.
The M23 rebel alliance, which has played a central role in the conflict in eastern Congo, announced on Saturday that it would reposition its forces from Walikale and its surrounding areas to support ongoing peace processes, which include political dialogue and the de-escalation of violence. Following this, the Congolese military also called for a reduction in tensions by encouraging local self-defense forces to prioritize peace talks.
Since the M23 intensified its offensive last year, the group has captured significant territory in North and South Kivu provinces, drawing accusations from the DRC and others that Rwanda has supported the rebels. Rwanda, however, has consistently denied these allegations.
The announcement follows recent diplomatic talks between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, mediated by Qatar's Emir in Doha. The two leaders called for a ceasefire, marking the latest round of negotiations since the M23 rebels took control of the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu this year.
As the violence continues, the United Nations reported on Friday that over 100,000 Congolese have fled the conflict, seeking refuge in neighboring countries within a matter of months. Rwanda's support for the peace efforts in the region reflects its commitment to a lasting solution and regional stability.
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Britain's King Charles has called on the world to work toward lasting peace and preventing future wars during a speech marking the end of four days of events celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
Before becoming Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost shared rare insights on faith, unity, and modern challenges in a few candid interviews.
A humanitarian ship carrying 20,000 tons of Ukrainian wheat docked in Samsun, Türkiye, on Thursday, marking a major World Food Program initiative to supply crisis-hit regions, including Syria.
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un supervised a missile test on Thursday, emphasizing the nation's nuclear combat readiness, according to state media KCNA.
EU foreign ministers will visit Lviv, Ukraine, on May 9 to discuss defense support and endorse plans for a tribunal on war crimes and aggression.
Britain's King Charles has called on the world to work toward lasting peace and preventing future wars during a speech marking the end of four days of events celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
Before becoming Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost shared rare insights on faith, unity, and modern challenges in a few candid interviews.
A humanitarian ship carrying 20,000 tons of Ukrainian wheat docked in Samsun, Türkiye, on Thursday, marking a major World Food Program initiative to supply crisis-hit regions, including Syria.
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un supervised a missile test on Thursday, emphasizing the nation's nuclear combat readiness, according to state media KCNA.
EU foreign ministers will visit Lviv, Ukraine, on May 9 to discuss defense support and endorse plans for a tribunal on war crimes and aggression.
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