The Democratic Republic of the Congo is sending a delegation to Angola on Tuesday for discussions aimed at addressing the worsening conflict with M23 rebels, the presidency confirmed on Sunday, March 16.
Angola recently announced that peace talks between Congo and M23 would begin in Luanda on March 18.
Despite previously rejecting dialogue with the rebels, President Felix Tshisekedi is reconsidering after military losses and dwindling regional support.
Presidency spokesperson Tina Salama said the delegation’s composition was yet to be determined.
Meanwhile, M23 acknowledged receiving Angola’s invitation, but its spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, did not confirm their participation.
The rebels have demanded a public commitment from Tshisekedi to direct negotiations before engaging in talks.
Angola has been working to mediate peace and ease tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which has been accused of backing M23. Rwanda denies involvement.
The long-running conflict in eastern Congo has intensified in recent months, with M23 advancing into strategic areas.
The Congolese government reports over 7,000 deaths since January, while the UN estimates that 600,000 people have been displaced since November.
Angolan President Joao Lourenço called for a ceasefire from Saturday midnight, but reports of fresh clashes in Walikale on Sunday suggest that hostilities continue despite efforts for peace.
