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.
Following high-level talks in Astana, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of Rwanda Paul Kagame adopted a joint statement and oversaw the exchange of nine cooperation documents between their countries.
The DRC and Rwanda have pledged to draft a peace deal by May 2 and stop backing armed groups, as part of new efforts to end conflict in eastern Congo.
Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa rejects a ceasefire call in east Congo, vowing to fight until their cause is heard. He condemns a proposed U.S. minerals-for-security deal as "treachery" while M23 fighters advance deeper into Congolese territory, seizing strategic towns.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will travel to Washington next week to meet U.S. President Donald Trump.
Landslides and flash floods caused by days of heavy monsoon rain have killed at least 22 people in India’s northeast, officials said.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Saturday that the border conflict with Thailand “must be resolved with patience and through legal and diplomatic channels.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke by phone with IAEA Director Rafael Mariano Grossi, warning that any political actions against Iran at next week’s Board of Governors meeting would have consequences.
Türkiye expressed deep sorrow Saturday over the devastating floods in Nigeria’s Niger State, which have claimed over 150 lives.
On May 28, the inauguration ceremony of Lachin International Airport was held.
A car drove into crowds of Liverpool fans celebrating the club’s Premier League title in the city centre on Monday evening, injuring dozens including 4 children. A 53-year-old man believed to be the driver was arrested at the scene.
EU ministers have greenlit a massive €150 billion defense investment fund—dubbed the Security Action for Europe (SAFE)—as the bloc ramps up its military readiness in response to Russia’s aggression and growing uncertainty over U.S. security guarantees.
Brazil’s economy is expected to have regained momentum in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a surge in household spending and private investment, according to a Reuters poll of economists conducted from May 21–26.
An international academic conference titled "Islamophobia: Exposing Prejudice and Destroying Stigma" has officially opened in the capital of Azerbaijan, bringing together global scholars, experts, and policymakers to address the rise and consequences of anti-Muslim discrimination.
Türkiye’s first floating natural gas production platform, Osman Gazi, reached Filyos Port in Zonguldak on May 31.
Authorities in Whatcom County, Washington, issued a warning Friday after a truck carrying honey bee hives overturned near the Canadian border, initially prompting fears that millions of bees had been released.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will travel to Washington next week to meet U.S. President Donald Trump.
Landslides and flash floods caused by days of heavy monsoon rain have killed at least 22 people in India’s northeast, officials said.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Saturday that the border conflict with Thailand “must be resolved with patience and through legal and diplomatic channels.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will travel to Washington next week to meet U.S. President Donald Trump.
Landslides and flash floods caused by days of heavy monsoon rain have killed at least 22 people in India’s northeast, officials said.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Saturday that the border conflict with Thailand “must be resolved with patience and through legal and diplomatic channels.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke by phone with IAEA Director Rafael Mariano Grossi, warning that any political actions against Iran at next week’s Board of Governors meeting would have consequences.
Türkiye expressed deep sorrow Saturday over the devastating floods in Nigeria’s Niger State, which have claimed over 150 lives.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment