On February 17, 2024, the Angolan Head of State, João Lourenço, issued a bold proposal during an extraordinary summit in Addis Ababa. He suggested a direct dialogue between the leaders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to resolve the conflict shaking these two neighboring nations.
During his intervention, João Lourenço underlined the crucial importance of putting the pacification process in eastern DRC back on track. He mentioned that despite the progress made, particularly in the face of one of the negative forces, the M23, a major setback led to the resumption of hostilities, thus impacting local populations and the country’s economy. The President of Angola has expressed concerns about a harmful escalation that could affect the entire Great Lakes region and SADC.
In a proactive approach, João Lourenço insisted on the need to renegotiate a ceasefire between the Congolese authorities and the M23. He also called for a direct dialogue between the heads of state of Rwanda and the DRC to promote more harmonious relations between the two brotherly peoples.
This proposal for direct dialogue between the leaders of Rwanda and the DRC marks a crucial turning point in the resolution of the conflict. It illustrates the desire of African countries to promote peace and stability in the region, and offers hope for de-escalation of tensions and strengthened cooperation between the two nations.
By following this path of dialogue and reconciliation, Africa demonstrates its capacity to resolve its differences through diplomacy and regional cooperation, thus laying the foundations for a peaceful and prosperous future for the populations of the countries concerned.