Speaking at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, Lourenço reiterated Angola’s commitment to resolving conflicts in Africa, particularly focusing on the conflict in eastern DRC.

He highlighted Angola’s current efforts, which include a proposal aimed at fostering peace between Rwanda and the DRC.

Key elements of Angola’s proposal involve coordinated efforts to dismantle the FDLR, a terrorist group identified as a primary source of insecurity in eastern DRC and the Great Lakes Region as well as the possibility of Rwanda to lift defensive measures.

During a meeting held on September 14, 2024, between Rwandan and Congolese delegations, an agreement to dismantle the FDLR was expected, following approval by intelligence and military experts. However, the DRC representatives rejected the proposal.

On September 19, President Lourenço sent a message to DRC President Félix Tshisekedi regarding the ongoing Luanda talks and spoke with Rwandan President Paul Kagame by phone.

Since 2022, Lourenço has played a key role in mediating between Rwanda and the DRC after relations soured.

The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group during its clashes with the Congolese army, a claim Kigali denies. Rwanda, in turn, accuses the DRC of collaborating with the FDLR and urges it to resolve its internal issues without implicating Rwanda.

Addressing the UN General Assembly, Lourenço noted that a ceasefire had been achieved in eastern DRC, taking effect on August 4, 2024, as part of the Luanda process. He expressed optimism for further progress.

“To consolidate these achievements, Angola has put forth a peace agreement involving the DRC and Rwanda, which is currently being discussed at the ministerial level.

“The goal is to reach an understanding that will justify the convening of a summit meeting to seal the signing of the definitive peace agreement and the reestablishment of relations between the DRC and Rwanda,” Lourenço noted.

He also expressed concerns about conflicts in Sudan and other African regions, urging the international community to align its efforts with the African Union to promote lasting peace across the continent.

Angolan President Lourenço has expressed optimism about restoring relations between Rwanda and DRC.