DRC east: Congolese president reaffirms commitment to regional peace initiatives in Angola

During a high-level meeting in Luanda, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi met privately with his Angolan counterpart, João Lourenço, to discuss the escalating crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The discussions took place ahead of a regional summit, underscoring the urgency of regional collaboration to address the ongoing instability.

Angola has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to facilitate an inter-Congolese dialogue, following consultations initiated earlier this year. In May, emissaries from Kinshasa traveled to Luanda to align on the Angolan-led framework for negotiations, which includes a proposed roadmap and reference guidelines for the dialogue.

While the Angolan government has consulted with various Congolese stakeholders, significant divergences persist among the DRC government, parts of the opposition, and civil society groups. As a result, the much-anticipated dialogue has yet to be convened, leaving the security situation in eastern DRC unresolved.

Peace must be tangible on the ground

Speaking at the summit, President Tshisekedi framed the crisis in eastern DRC as a critical test for Africa and the international community. He highlighted the devastating impact of armed group violence, mass displacement, human rights abuses, foreign interference, and illegal resource extraction in the region.

The Congolese leader reaffirmed his support for the Washington and Doha peace processes, emphasizing that a lasting solution must be verifiable through concrete actions on the ground. He stressed the need for accountability and tangible progress to restore stability and protect civilians.

For his part, Angolan President João Lourenço identified eastern DRC as one of the world’s most pressing conflict zones. He called for intensified diplomatic efforts, adherence to international law, and greater emphasis on African-led solutions to regional crises. Lourenço reiterated Angola’s commitment to fostering dialogue and finding sustainable resolutions through continental frameworks.

Despite multiple diplomatic initiatives—including the Washington and Doha processes and Angola’s ongoing consultations—the security outlook in eastern DRC remains dire. Communities continue to endure violence, displacement, and humanitarian hardship, with little sign of immediate resolution.