Rwanda and DRC initial text for peace agreement #rwanda #RwOT

The ceremony, witnessed by the U.S. Under Secretary for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, sets the stage for the formal Ministerial signing scheduled for June 27, 2025, to be overseen by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the agreement, built upon the Declaration of Principles signed on April 25, 2025, is the culmination of three days of constructive dialogue addressing critical political, security, and economic issues.

The comprehensive accord includes key provisions aimed at fostering lasting stability and cooperation between the two nations.

These include commitments to respect territorial integrity, a prohibition on hostilities, and measures for the disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration of non-state armed groups.

Additionally, the agreement establishes a Joint Security Coordination Mechanism, incorporating the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) outlined on October 31, 2024.

Beyond security, the Peace Agreement prioritizes humanitarian and economic objectives. It facilitates the safe return of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensures humanitarian access, and lays the foundation for a regional economic integration framework to promote shared prosperity.

The negotiations benefited from close coordination between the United States and Qatar, with Qatari representatives participating to align their complementary peace initiatives. Both the DRC and Rwanda expressed gratitude for the pivotal roles played by the U.S. and Qatar in advancing dialogue and fostering a peaceful resolution.

Looking ahead, the agreement sets the stage for a Summit of Heads of State in Washington, D.C., where leaders will make further commitments to peace, stability, and economic prosperity in the Great Lakes region.

Massad Boulos, the United States Senior Advisor for Africa expressed his pride in the achievement on X.

"Proud to lead three days of peace talks, which resulted in the initialing of the peace agreement by delegations from the DRC and Rwanda. Next week, we look forward to hosting the Foreign Ministers to sign the agreement on June 27 witnessed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Together, we're working toward achieving lasting peace and stability in the region," he stated.

Rwanda's Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, signed the agreement outlining the key points that will be finalized by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs next week.