TITLE: “Dialogue between Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame: an attempt to thaw strained relations”
Introduction :
For several months, diplomatic relations between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have been particularly tense. The M23 issue, which Paul Kagame seeks to bring to the international stage, has become a major point of contention between the two countries. Despite Uhuru Kenyatta’s efforts to bring the two leaders closer together, Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame remain entrenched in their positions and seem to avoid any direct interaction. In this article, we will examine the issues and attempts to unfreeze these conflicting relationships.
Refusal to talk:
Felix Tshisekedi clearly expressed his dissatisfaction with Rwanda’s dialogue proposal. He denounces an attempt to manipulate and recognize the M23 as a legitimate interest group, which would compromise the stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Congolese president refuses to participate in discussions with “puppets” and calls for the establishment of a concrete process of ceasefire and cantonment of M23 fighters.
Calls for negotiation:
Despite Félix Tshisekedi’s repeated refusals, many regional and international actors continue to plead in favor of negotiations to resolve the crisis in the east of the country. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa came to Kinshasa and stressed the need to find a peaceful solution through dialogue. The European Union also supports this approach, stressing that military options will only aggravate the suffering of populations.
The Goma meeting:
As part of the mediation efforts, Uhuru Kenyatta organized a meeting in Goma, which was attended by several stakeholders, including the head of MONUSCO and representatives from the United States, France, Belgium and Switzerland. . The objective of this meeting was to find a peaceful resolution and to allow the return of internally displaced persons before the upcoming elections in the DRC.
Conclusion :
Despite attempts at rapprochement, relations between Felix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame remain tense, with divergent positions on the M23 issue. While Tshisekedi refuses to participate in talks he sees as manipulative, many international players are arguing in favor of negotiation. It remains to be seen whether a compromise can be found to resolve the crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and restore more harmonious relations between the two countries