The declaration was signed on Saturday, Juny 19 in Doha, Qatar, under the facilitation of the Qatari government, with backing from the United States.
The Rwandan government lauded the agreement as a significant development in advancing regional peace and security, noting that it builds upon recent momentum, including the Peace Agreement signed between Rwanda and the DRC in Washington last month.
'Today's declaration in Doha is a significant step forward towards the peaceful resolution of conflict in eastern DRC, by addressing the root causes of the conflict and restoring security and stability in our region,' read a statement released by the Government of Rwanda.
Rwanda also acknowledged the pivotal role played by Qatar in mediating the discussions, alongside support from the U.S. government. The efforts were commended as a continuation of Africa-led peace initiatives, including those by the African Union (AU) and the joint efforts of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
'The Government of Rwanda appreciates the crucial mediation role of the State of Qatar with the support of the United States Government, which builds on the efforts of the African Union, as well as the joint EAC/SADC initiatives,' the statement added.
Rwanda reiterated its commitment to supporting the peace process and contributing to long-term stability and prosperity in the Great Lakes region.
'We all have to support the continuation of progress to the conclusion,' the government urged, reaffirming its dedication to sustainable peace and regional economic development.
The DRC was represented by President Félix Tshisekedi's envoy, Sumbu Sita Mambu, while AFC/M23 was represented by its Executive Secretary, Benjamin Mbonimpa. Both parties signed the principles in Qatar on July 19, 2025.
Key elements include a mutual agreement to a permanent ceasefire and refraining from seizing new territory, preparation for the release of detainees on both sides, facilitation of voluntary refugee repatriation, and the protection of civilians.
Both parties also agreed that restoring state authority across all regions of the country would help address the conflict through a peace agreement, and thus committed to discussing mechanisms to make this possible.
The DRC Government and AFC/M23 pledged to begin implementing these principles immediately upon their announcement on July 19, or within 10 days of signing.
They also agreed to launch comprehensive negotiations within 10 days of beginning implementation of the principles. These talks will be aligned with the peace agreement signed between Rwanda and the DRC in Washington on June 27, 2025.
Finally, both sides agreed that talks leading to a concrete peace agreement should be treated as a priority and carried out in a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding, with the final agreement to be signed within a minimum of seven days and no later than ten days after talks begin.
IGIHE
