The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group have resumed peace negotiations in Qatar, according to sources familiar with the discussions, marking a renewed effort to end ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
The latest round of talks began on May 3 in Doha, following earlier negotiations held in April. The discussions aim to de-escalate a crisis that has killed thousands, displaced hundreds of thousands, and sparked fears of a broader regional conflict.
An official involved in the talks told Reuters the meetings were progressing in a “positive atmosphere,” with both sides showing optimism. However, M23 representatives reportedly expressed frustration, noting that their delegation was of lower rank than before and that Congolese negotiators lacked decision-making authority.
The rebels also criticized Kinshasa for not implementing confidence-building steps, including the release of suspected M23 detainees. The Congolese government has not publicly responded to the complaints, though a source close to President Félix Tshisekedi emphasized that peace remained a top priority and hinted that limited amnesty could be considered.
After April’s round of talks, both parties pledged to curb violence and hate speech while urging public support for a ceasefire and continued dialogue. Despite these commitments, fighting has persisted. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that renewed clashes in North Kivu province displaced at least 30,000 people since last Friday alone.
Qatar has emerged as a key mediator, having facilitated a surprise meeting between Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in March. The conflict in eastern Congo is deeply rooted in regional tensions dating back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide and has been exacerbated by cross-border militia activity.
The United Nations and Western governments allege that Rwanda continues to support M23 with weapons and troops — claims Kigali denies, insisting its actions are defensive responses to threats posed by Congolese forces and hostile militias.
Meanwhile, the United States is also involved in brokering a long-term peace deal between DRC and Rwanda. Senior U.S. adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos, has said Washington aims to finalize agreements with both countries by July, potentially unlocking billions of dollars in Western investment focused on the region’s vast mineral wealth.