AUC Praises Kagame and Tshisekedi for Historic Qatar Peace Talks
The African Union Commission (AUC) has lauded Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for their commitment to peace during the Qatar-brokered talks in Doha. The AUC, under the leadership of Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, commended the two leaders for their statesmanship and dedication to resolving the crisis in Eastern DRC.
The meeting, chaired by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, marked the first face-to-face discussion between Kagame and Tshisekedi since the M23 rebels intensified their offensive in the region. The AUC emphasized the importance of African-led solutions to African challenges, aligning with the Luanda and Nairobi processes.
Youssouf expressed gratitude to Qatar for facilitating the dialogue and called on all stakeholders to maintain the momentum generated in Doha. He reiterated the AUC’s commitment to supporting efforts that promote peace, security, and stability across the continent.
AUC Highlights Importance of African-Led Solutions
The AUC has consistently advocated for African-led solutions to the continent’s challenges. Chairperson Youssouf emphasized that the Doha discussions align with the African Union’s vision of fostering sustainable peace through regional cooperation. He praised Kagame and Tshisekedi for their leadership and shared recognition of the need for peace in the Great Lakes region.
The AUC’s statement, delivered by spokesperson Nuur Mohamud Sheekh, highlighted the importance of continued coordination between the African Union, regional economic communities, and international partners. Youssouf stressed that peace and stability are indispensable for the prosperity of the DRC, Rwanda, and the wider region.
The AUC’s support for the Doha talks underscores its commitment to promoting dialogue and confidence-building. Youssouf called on all parties to work collectively toward the full implementation of agreed commitments, including an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Eastern DRC.
Kagame and Tshisekedi Reaffirm Commitment to Ceasefire
During the Doha meeting, Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi reaffirmed their commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Eastern DRC. This agreement builds on previous commitments made during the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in Dar es Salaam on February 8, 2025.
The two leaders acknowledged the devastating impact of the conflict, which has claimed over 7,000 lives since the M23 rebels escalated their offensive in January. The AUC welcomed their engagement and expressed hope that the ceasefire would pave the way for lasting peace in the region.
However, uncertainty remains as the M23 rebels snubbed a fresh round of peace talks in Angola on Tuesday. The group’s refusal to participate raises questions about their willingness to adhere to the ceasefire agreement reached in Doha.
AUC Calls for Collective Action to Restore Peace
The AUC has called on all stakeholders to work collectively toward the restoration of peace and stability in Eastern DRC. Chairperson Youssouf emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum generated during the Doha talks and implementing agreed commitments.
He reiterated the AUC’s readiness to support and accompany these efforts, in line with its mandate to promote peace, security, and stability across the continent. Youssouf also expressed appreciation to Qatar and His Highness the Amir for their role in facilitating the dialogue.
The AUC’s statement underscored the need for continued coordination between the African Union, regional economic communities, and international partners. Youssouf emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to resolving conflicts.
Background: Rwanda-DRC Tensions and M23 Rebels
Rwanda and the DRC have been embroiled in a long-standing conflict, with both countries trading accusations over alleged support for the M23 rebel group. The rebels, who operate mainly in North Kivu province, have been accused of destabilizing the region and committing human rights abuses.
Rwanda has denied allegations of backing the M23, stating that its forces are acting in self-defense against the DR Congo army and allied militias. The conflict has displaced thousands of people and created a humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC.
Previous peace talks brokered by Angola in December collapsed after Rwanda demanded that the DRC government engage directly with the M23. The rebels’ refusal to participate in the latest round of talks in Angola has further complicated efforts to achieve a lasting resolution.
AUC’s Role in Promoting Peace and Stability
The AUC has played a pivotal role in promoting peace and stability in Africa, particularly in conflict-ridden regions like Eastern DRC. Chairperson Youssouf’s commendation of Kagame and Tshisekedi reflects the AUC’s commitment to supporting African-led solutions to African challenges.
The AUC’s efforts align with the Luanda and Nairobi processes, which emphasize dialogue and confidence-building as key components of conflict resolution. Youssouf’s statement highlighted the importance of continued coordination between the African Union, regional economic communities, and international partners.
The AUC’s support for the Doha talks underscores its dedication to fostering sustainable peace in the Great Lakes region. Youssouf called on all stakeholders to maintain the momentum generated in Doha and work collectively toward the full implementation of agreed commitments.
AUC’s Vision for a Peaceful Africa
The AUC’s commendation of Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi reflects its unwavering commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability across Africa. The Doha talks represent a significant step toward resolving the crisis in Eastern DRC, but much work remains to be done.
Chairperson Youssouf emphasized the importance of African-led solutions and called on all stakeholders to work collectively toward the restoration of peace. The AUC’s support for the Doha talks underscores its dedication to fostering sustainable peace in the Great Lakes region.
As the African Union continues to champion peace and stability, the AUC remains resolute in its commitment to supporting efforts that promote dialogue, confidence-building, and conflict resolution. The Doha talks serve as a reminder of the power of diplomacy and the importance of collective action in achieving lasting peace.
