This landmark agreement signed on Saturday, July 19, marks a significant step toward achieving lasting peace, security, and stability in eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.
In a statement released after the signing of the agreement, the Chairperson praised the constructive mediation efforts of the United States and the State of Qatar, alongside the invaluable contributions of regional facilitators from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
He extended special gratitude to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, for his steadfast commitment to fostering peace across Africa.
Further commendations were directed to the AU Champion for Peace and Reconciliation, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of Angola, and the AU-appointed Mediator, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of Togo, for their tireless efforts in facilitating dialogue.
The Chairperson also lauded the Governments of the DRC and Rwanda for their spirit of compromise and political will, which paved the way for this breakthrough.
'This breakthrough offers renewed hope for regional cooperation and sustainable peace. The African Union remains fully committed to working with all stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the Peace Agreement and to contribute to sustainable peace, security, and development in the DRC and the region,' the statement concludes.
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, which has recently been hosting peace talks between both parties.
It was attended by various officials, including Rwanda's Interior Minister, Dr. Vincent Biruta, President Donald Trump's special advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, a representative from Togo, and a representative from the African Union.
Among the key principles outlined is the requirement for both sides to respect the ceasefire agreement signed in April 2025.
Both parties agreed to facilitate the voluntary return of refugees living abroad, based on the agreements signed between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and host countries.
The Government of the DRC and AFC/M23 agreed to take confidence-building measures, including arrangements for the release of prisoners, with the involvement of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
Both parties are urged to begin peace negotiations based on these principles as soon as possible, with the aim of reaching a lasting peace agreement.
IGIHE
