Washington D.C. – The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) and Rwanda have initialed a significant economic agreement aimed at fostering regional integration. The agreement was reached in Washington, D.C., as efforts continue to promote peace and stimulate Western investment in the region.
Technical teams from both countries’ delegations signed the framework for regional economic integration on Friday. According to a statement released by the U.S. State Department following a Joint Oversight Committee meeting, this framework “identifies key areas for enhanced economic cooperation and development between the two nations.”
The presidents of both DR Congo and Rwanda are expected to formally sign the agreement during a future visit to the White House. While the date of the visit remains unannounced, speculation suggests a meeting could take place around November 13th.
However, the joint statement from both countries emphasizes that the implementation of this framework is contingent upon tangible progress in executing a prior agreement. This includes the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from eastern DR Congo, a sensitive and crucial element for regional stability.
In June, the foreign ministers of DR Congo and Rwanda signed a peace accord in Washington, committing to the implementation of a 2024 agreement that stipulates Rwanda should finalize its defensive measures in eastern DR Congo within 90 days.
“The committee acknowledged delays in making progress and pledged to redouble efforts to implement the Washington Peace Agreement,” yesterday’s statement noted. It further stated that both parties agreed to take specific, near-term actions related to military activity in the region. The success of this economic framework hinges on the fulfillment of these security commitments.
