Direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels will begin in the Angolan capital on March 18, Angola's presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Angola, as mediator in the conflict in the east of Democratic Republic of Congo, will establish contacts with the M23, so that delegations from Congo and the M23 can hold direct

Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels will engage in direct negotiations in the coming days to end the conflict in the country’s mineral-rich east, according to the presidency of Angola, which will mediate the talks.

Congo's government and the M23 rebel group will participate in peace talks on March 18, Angola said Wednesday. A statement from Angolan President João Lourenço's office said they would begin “direct peace negotiations” in the Angolan capital,