This step was taken after discussions between the two parties in Luanda, Angola. Rwanda was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, while the DRC was represented by Minister Therese K. Wagner. The meeting was also attended by Angola's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tete António, who acted as the mediator.
During the discussions, both sides reviewed a document outlining the plan for dismantling the FDLR, a group that Rwanda has repeatedly stated threatens its security. The document also details how Rwanda will lift the security measures it had previously imposed due to concerns over its security.
After agreeing on this plan, both parties signed the document. The Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, 'Since both parties have agreed on this matter, the Ministers decided that discussions on unresolved issues should continue as soon as possible.'
The signed document was prepared by security experts from the three countries, who met in late August and early September of this year. These activities are part of a project initiated by Angola, based on decisions made by the countries' ministerial representatives during their meeting in Luanda on October 12, 2024.
The security experts from the three countries first met in Luanda on August 7 and 8, 2024, to discuss a way forward. They later reconvened in Rubavu in late September to prepare a report on how to dismantle the militia.
The Luanda talks began in 2022, when tensions escalated in the relationship between Rwanda and the DRC. Early that year, the DRC accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, while Rwanda accused the DRC of supporting the FDLR. Both countries deny these allegations.
Rwanda's involvement in the Luanda talks is due to the insecurity in the DRC, which has affected bilateral relations. The discussions are based on mutual accusations of support for armed groups and the need to repatriate Congolese refugees who have fled to neighboring countries, including Rwanda.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-and-drc-ink-deal-to-end-fdlr-threat-and-restore-stability
