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President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed a desire to engage in dialogue with Rwandan President Paul Kagame regarding the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo, explicitly stating his unwillingness to negotiate with the rebel group M23.

In his first public address since announcing his intention to seek a second term in office last month, President Tshisekedi reflected on a previous meeting with President Kagame in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This meeting, facilitated by Angolan President João Lourenço acting as a mediator on behalf of the African Union, failed to yield results due to the inflexible positions held by both parties.

Tshisekedi revealed that President Lourenço has organized another meeting, proposing separate discussions with each leader. Tshisekedi is optimistic about the upcoming meeting in Luanda, indicating his willingness to attend if conditions are favorable.

During the press conference, Tshisekedi addressed inquiries regarding his refusal to engage with M23, a group initially disbanded in 2012 but later revived. He attributed the resurgence of M23 to support from the Rwandan government, contrasting this with Kinshasa's efforts to relocate FDLR fighters and their families to Rwanda. The FDLR is a group opposed to the Rwandan government.

Tshisekedi emphasized his intention to hold discussions exclusively with Rwanda, holding it responsible for the provocations. He recounted his message to Kagame during the Addis Ababa meeting, questioning Rwanda's intentions towards the DR Congo and highlighting the adverse impacts on Congolese citizens and national assets.

The allegations of support for M23 by Kigali and for the FDLR by Kinshasa have been a point of contention, with both sides denying involvement with these rebel groups. However, recent reports by UN experts suggest collaboration between the respective national forces and the rebel groups, further complicating the situation