M23 rebel group says peace talks with DR Congo to continue

KIGALI, Rwanda

The M23 rebel group said Thursday that discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo government in Doha will continue in the coming weeks, despite violations of a ceasefire.

Benjamin Mbonimpa, the group's chief negotiator in Doha, spoke to reporters in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, days after the two sides signed a peace framework agreement.

He said talks will focus on key issues, including humanitarian access, judicial guarantees and the modalities for the release of prisoners.

He warned that ongoing clashes with local armed groups could threaten the implementation of the peace framework agreement.

Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya told reporters earlier this week that Kinshasa will not cede any territory in the Doha negotiations.

He stressed that the country's territorial integrity is non-negotiable as the government remains committed to restoring peace in the east.

Last week, the DR Congo government and the M23 signed a peace framework agreement in Doha, brokered by Qatar.

Congo and a coalition of various rebel groups that includes the M23 (AFC/M23) signed in Doha the Declaration of Principles ceasefire deal in July.

But fighting continues between government forces and the M23 rebels, with each side accusing the other of violating the ceasefire.