The delegations last convened in Angola in March 2024, where they reached several resolutions, including the cessation of hostilities between the DRC's armed forces and the M23 rebel group, which has been central to these conflicts, in order to restore security in the North Kivu province.
A statement signed by the foreign ministers of both countries at the time, called for mutual trust and the sharing of intelligence information to prevent any security threats to Rwanda and the DRC.
The DRC delegation agreed to present a plan to dismantle the FDLR rebel group in a subsequent meeting that was scheduled for April 2024.
It was agreed that if the DRC follows through on its commitment to dismantle the FDLR, the Rwandan government would also take measures to ensure Rwanda's security.
However, shortly after these talks, Christophe Lutundula, the DRC's Minister of Foreign Affairs, told reporters in Kinshasa that he and his government officials were unaware of the FDLR's exact location, casting doubt on their willingness to fulfill their commitment.
The FDLR, which Lutundula claimed could not be located, is reportedly collaborating with the DRC's armed forces in the fight against the M23, as corroborated by a UN Group of Experts report containing evidence and testimonies from Congolese soldiers.
The planned talks for April 2024 did not take place. However, both parties continued to communicate with the mediator, Angola, regarding the implementation of resolutions made since the first Luanda summit in 2022.
Although not part of the Luanda talks, in early July 2024, Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, and State Secretary for East African Community Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe met with DRC's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gracia Yamba Kazadi, in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Amb. Nduhungirehe explained that during their meeting, held on the sidelines of an East African Community retreat, both parties agreed that resuming the Luanda talks promptly was essential to finding a lasting solution to the conflicts between both countries.
In March 2024, it was anticipated that the April talks would prepare for a meeting between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, facilitated by Angola. Both presidents had agreed to meet face-to-face.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwandan-and-drc-delegations-to-meet-in-luanda
