The command of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces deployed in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has agreed that M23 rebels will facilitate the withdrawal of the SADC contingent from the rebel-held Congolese city of Goma, media reported.
The parties committed to ending hostilities and unconditionally withdrawing the SADC contingent, according to a communique following a meeting in Goma between the SADC military and M23 rebels.
According to the agreement, South African units currently stationed at Goma airport will leave it with weapons in hand. At the same time, South Africa committed to restoring the functioning of Goma airport, which was damaged during fighting in January.
The timing of the withdrawal of SADC troops has not yet been set. Another meeting of SADC and M23 representatives is expected to take place in Goma in the near future.