Wed Mar 19 22:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Congo and Rwanda Presidents Hold Talks in Doha Amid Eastern DRC Conflict
**Doha, Qatar –** Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met for the first time in direct talks in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, amid escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The meeting, welcomed by the African Union (AU), follows months of fighting involving the M23 rebel group, which the DRC government and others accuse Rwanda of supporting – a claim Rwanda denies.
The two leaders issued a joint statement calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, with details of implementation to be announced in the coming days. This follows the M23’s withdrawal from separate talks in Angola after the European Union imposed sanctions on several M23 leaders and Rwandan officials accused of supporting the rebel group.
The AU commended Tshisekedi and Kagame for their commitment to dialogue and urged all parties to maintain momentum towards a peaceful resolution. The AU reiterated its support for African-led solutions to the crisis.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, fueled by numerous armed groups vying for control of mineral-rich territory, has created a major humanitarian crisis. The UN estimates nearly 7 million people, including at least 3.5 million children, are in need of assistance. The recent resurgence of M23 activity, including the capture of key cities, has further exacerbated the situation. The Doha talks represent a significant step towards de-escalation, though the path to lasting peace remains uncertain.
First Piper 