Doha, Qatar – A crucial diplomatic initiative unfolded in Doha as President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda engaged in high-level discussions concerning the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
A formal communiqué issued following the meeting emphasized the significance of the engagement: “To advance efforts aimed at stabilizing the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the State of Qatar facilitated a trilateral dialogue in Doha on Tuesday, 18 March 2025.”
The statement further specified that His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, hosted the discussions, which brought together Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi in a concerted effort to explore diplomatic solutions.
In the course of deliberations, the leaders acknowledged advancements achieved through the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes, as well as the resolutions of the joint East African Community (EAC)–Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on 8 February 2025. The statement reaffirmed a collective commitment to enforcing an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, in alignment with prior agreements established during the Dar es Salaam summit.
Moreover, the discussions underscored the necessity of sustained dialogue, with the parties concurring on the importance of continued engagements in Doha to establish a durable framework for peace, aligned with the objectives set forth in the Luanda and Nairobi negotiations.
Escalation of the Conflict
The resurgence of the M23 armed group has significantly intensified hostilities in eastern DRC, leading to the capture of strategically vital urban centers, including Goma and Bukavu, since January 2025.
The Congolese government has consistently alleged that Rwanda provides military and logistical support to the M23 rebels—a claim that Kigali categorically denies. The Rwandan administration maintains that its security forces operate in self-defense against armed factions perceived as threats to national stability.
Regional and International Reactions
The European Union recently imposed sanctions on senior Rwandan military officials and key M23 figures, citing their roles in exacerbating the conflict and engaging in the unlawful exploitation of the DRC’s natural resources. Among those sanctioned were Bertrand Bisimwa, M23’s political leader, along with three high-ranking rebel commanders.
These measures prompted the M23 to withdraw from planned peace negotiations in Angola, citing the sanctions as a hindrance to meaningful dialogue. Concurrently, diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium deteriorated, culminating in the reciprocal expulsion of diplomats from both nations.
Humanitarian Implications and Path Forward
The escalation of hostilities has resulted in widespread displacement and deepened the humanitarian crisis in the region. Amidst these challenges, the reaffirmed commitment of Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi to continued diplomatic engagement offers a potential pathway toward a resolution.
Both leaders extended their appreciation to the State of Qatar and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for hosting the discussions, recognizing the role of Qatari diplomacy in fostering dialogue and trust-building. Their joint statement concluded with an expression of optimism that sustained negotiations would contribute to fostering regional stability and a unified future for the DRC and its neighbouring states.
