Doha, Qatar – The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group signed a new framework agreement aimed at achieving lasting peace in the conflict-ridden eastern region of the country. The signing ceremony took place in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday.
The agreement, officially titled the “Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 Movement,” was witnessed by officials from both the DRC government and the M23, as well as representatives from the United States and Qatar.
Qatari State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, who served as the chief negotiator, hailed the agreement as a “historic achievement.” He emphasized that efforts would continue to establish peace on the ground through the development of appropriate implementation mechanisms.
This agreement builds upon previous attempts to de-escalate tensions. In July, both parties signed a ceasefire agreement and a preliminary framework in Doha. This followed a peace accord signed between the DRC and Rwanda in Washington D.C. at the end of June. The complexities of the situation require sustained diplomatic efforts to ensure long-term stability.
The new Doha Framework represents a renewed commitment to finding a durable solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. The success of the agreement will depend on the willingness of all parties to fully implement its provisions and address the underlying causes of the conflict.
