The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have resumed high-level discussions in Luanda, Angola, aimed at resolving the conflict in the eastern part of the DRC. These talks, part of a peace process mediated by Angola’s President João Lourenço, are focused on two main issues: dismantling the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda) rebel group and withdrawing Rwandan forces from Congolese territory.
In a recent interview with France 24, DRC’s Minister of Communication, Patrick Muyaya, confirmed the continuation of negotiations, stating that “ministerial meetings have resumed, and today, there was an expert meeting.” Muyaya further revealed, “We are working on two issues; on one hand, the FDLR must be dismantled, and on the other, Rwandan forces must withdraw.” The next key ministerial meeting, he added, is scheduled for September 14 to review the findings of the expert discussions.
The talks follow a comprehensive peace plan proposed by Angola’s President last month. According to Muyaya, this plan, though not yet fully disclosed, aims to bring long-term peace to the conflict-ridden eastern DRC. The BBC reports that Angola has been actively facilitating negotiations between the DRC and Rwanda, with both parties committed to reaching a peaceful resolution. However, details of the plan remain unclear as neither the Rwandan government nor the Angolan mediators have commented publicly on the discussions.
Tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have been high, with Kinshasa accusing Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group operating in eastern Congo. Rwanda has consistently denied these allegations, insisting that its military presence in the region is not linked to supporting M23. Nonetheless, the situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging accusations of ceasefire violations.
According to Africa Intelligence, the Luanda talks have made “significant progress,” though the implementation of agreements reached so far remains a challenge. Intelligence officials from both countries, as well as representatives from the M23, have participated in previous meetings. The upcoming ministerial meeting is expected to further assess the outcomes of these negotiations and discuss the roadmap for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and the disbanding of FDLR forces.
Despite occasional clashes in the region, Muyaya expressed optimism about the peace process. “We believe we are on the right path that will lead us to peace,” he told France 24. However, BBC noted that on-the-ground conditions remain tense, with accusations of ceasefire violations by both government forces and rebel groups.
The international community is closely watching the developments in Luanda, with hopes that a peaceful resolution can be reached to end years of conflict in eastern Congo, which has displaced millions and caused widespread suffering.
As the talks continue, all eyes will be on the upcoming meeting in mid-September, where both sides are expected to outline concrete steps toward implementing the proposed peace plan and addressing the root causes of the conflict.
