**Fatshimetrie: A Historic Breakthrough in Relations between the DRC and Rwanda**
The latest chapter in the tumultuous relations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda opened last Saturday during the fifth tripartite meeting facilitated by Angola. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of these two countries, Thérèse Kayikwamba for the DRC and Olivier Nduhungirehe for Rwanda, concluded a historic agreement on the Harmonized Plan for the Neutralization of the FDLR and the lifting of Rwandan defense measures. This breakthrough demonstrates a common desire to pacify the Great Lakes region, marked for years by recurring tensions and conflicts.
The agreement, facilitated by Angola, represents a major turning point in bilateral relations between the DRC and Rwanda. It demonstrates the willingness of both countries to find pragmatic and lasting solutions to the security challenges that hinder the development of the region.
Asked about the DRC’s position, which downplays the presence of the FDLR but commits to neutralizing them, the spokesman for the Congolese government, Patrick Muyaya, stressed Kinshasa’s determination to dispel Rwanda’s “false pretexts” in resolving this crisis. This approach demonstrates a desire to build a relationship of trust and mutual cooperation between the two countries.
Indeed, since the beginning of the crisis, the DRC has worked to dismantle the fallacious arguments used by Rwanda to justify its interference in Congolese affairs. Discussions resulted in an agreement on the issue of refugees and the withdrawal of Rwandan troops, paving the way for closer collaboration between the two countries.
The discussions between the ministers also made it possible to instruct experts to prepare a detailed plan for implementing the commitments made at this meeting. This operational plan will be crucial to ensure the effective implementation of the decisions taken in Luanda and to guarantee rigorous monitoring of the progress of the actions undertaken.
On the ground, despite some sporadic clashes between the Congolese armed forces and rebel groups supported by Rwanda, significant progress has been made. The province of North Kivu, long marked by instability and violence, seems to be beginning a process of pacification thanks to the concerted efforts of the Congolese and Rwandan authorities.
In conclusion, the agreement on the Harmonized Plan for the Neutralization of the FDLR between the DRC and Rwanda marks a historic step forward in resolving the conflicts tearing apart the Great Lakes region. This approach demonstrates the political maturity of both countries and their desire to turn the page on a conflictual past in order to build a future of peace and prosperity for their populations.