Angola the mediator in the DRC crisis has called for a ceasefire starting tonight at Midnight to create a climate conducive to negotiations.
The DRC and AFC/M23 will meet in the next three days to hold direct negotiations to pave way for a political solution to the ongoing crisis in Eastern part of DRC.
Kinshasa has confirmed the participation of a delegation in Luanda for the discussions, but its composition is not yet known.
On the ground, fighting continues between the Congolese troops and AFC/M23 fighters.
In Kabare territory, South Kivu, a clash between Wazalendo fighters and M23 elements was reported Friday in Cirunga.
In North Kivu, the situation has also deteriorated. On Wednesday, March 12, M23 rebels seized the town of Kashebere, in Walikale territory.
This area constitutes a strategic point connecting several provinces in the east of the country. The fighters then advanced as far as Kibati, ten kilometers from Kashebere, and now occupy Nyabiondo.
Meanwhile, regional authorities are attempting to provide a diplomatic response.
A meeting of SADC and EAC foreign ministers is scheduled for March 17 in Harare to discuss the modalities of a more binding ceasefire.
In Nairobi, Congolese Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner called for a coordinated regional response against the AFC/M23.
She insisted on the immediate implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2773, calling for the withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces and the reopening of Goma and Kavumu airports.
