The specifics of a potential ceasefire in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo were uncertain Wednesday.
This follows a surprise meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha.
The mineral-rich east has seen intensified conflict with the Rwanda-backed M23 group’s rapid offensive.
Angola reported Tuesday that planned peace talks in Luanda between Kinshasa and the M23 did not occur.
Qatar then unexpectedly revealed that Kagame and Tshisekedi convened in Doha for discussions.
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani mediated this unforeseen diplomatic engagement.
The two African leaders, whose prior dialogue attempts faltered, voiced their support for a ceasefire.
A joint statement from the three nations confirmed this commitment.
They “reaffirmed the commitment of all parties to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.” This echoed an agreement reached at a recent African summit.
Qatar described the “fruitful meeting” as building confidence for regional security and stability.
Continued negotiations are essential to establish a durable peace. Qatar has actively mediated conflicts in Yemen, Israel-Palestine, and Afghanistan.
The Congolese presidency stated that the “terms of the execution of what has been agreed will be specified in the coming days.”
The African Union lauded the DRC and Rwandan leaders for their “commitment to dialogue.”
They urged all involved parties to “maintain the momentum” towards peace.