Angola says DR Congo and M23 rebels to begin direct peace talks on March 18th

Angola says that it convinced all combatants in DR Congo’s conflict to come to the table on March 18th for direct peace talks. Luanda has been trying to mediate a ceasefire as M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have advanced through eastern DR Congo this year. Kinshasa says that over 8500 people have been killed by the militia since January and had refused to negotiate with the M23. On Tuesday, its only response was to say it had taken note of Angola’s efforts.