Before negotiations between M23 and the Congolese government could begin, certain conditions were set. Angola’s President, João Lourenço, who is mediating the conflict in eastern Congo and also chairs the African Union, called on all warring parties to cease hostilities and refrain from capturing new territories in the two days leading up to the talks.
The ceasefire was scheduled to take effect on March 16, 2025, as the negotiations were set for March 18, 2025, in Luanda, Angola, unless changes occurred.
According to an official statement from the Angolan government, the ceasefire aims to facilitate preparations for the peace talks. The statement also called for an immediate halt to attacks on civilians and the cessation of territorial advances by either side.
However, despite the talks being just a day away, the Kinshasa government has yet to confirm its participation, even though it has expressed support for the negotiation process. On the other hand, M23 has consistently shown willingness to engage in dialogue, as it has long sought a lasting solution to the ongoing security crisis in the country.
On March 11, 2025, the Angolan presidency issued a statement announcing that President João Lourenço would host negotiations between the Congolese government and M23. Shortly after, the presidency confirmed that the talks were scheduled for March 18, 2025.
