According to a statement released by the U.S. Department of State,this significant step was taken during the fourth meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee (JOC), held in Washington, D.C. The JOC brings together the DRC and Rwanda, with the support of the United States, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (as the African Union mediator), and the African Union Commission.
The REIF is a key component of the Peace Agreement signed in June 2025. It outlines key areas for fostering economic cooperation and development between the two nations, demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace and creating opportunities for investment and growth that directly benefit people in the region.
Under Secretary Hooker and U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa Boulos oversaw the initialing of the framework, reinforcing the commitment of the international community to supporting economic integration as a vital aspect of the peace process.
The successful implementation of the REIF, however, hinges on the fulfillment of additional operational agreements, particularly the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Operational Order (OPORD) that outline the peace process's security and military provisions.
While the signing of the REIF was hailed as a significant breakthrough, it also underscores the ongoing need for further progress in the peace process.
The Joint Oversight Committee reaffirmed the necessity of upholding commitments made under the Peace Agreement, including actions to neutralize the FDLR terrorist group and associated groups to be followed by the lifting of defensive measures.
The Parties reaffirmed their commitment to refrain from hostile actions or rhetoric, particularly political attacks or language that would undermine or complicate the full implementation of the Peace Agreement, including in international fora.
The State of Qatar provided an update on the ongoing negotiations in Doha between the DRC and AFC/M23, highlighting progress on key issues, including prisoner exchanges.
The Committee also welcomed the first convening of the Doha ceasefire monitoring mechanism on November 5 and expressed strong support for these efforts and emphasized the critical role of the Doha process in advancing the broader implementation of the Peace Agreement.
The Parties expressed a shared commitment to maintaining momentum in the peace process and continuing to build on the progress achieved.
The Governments of the DRC and Rwanda expressed their gratitude to the United States, Qatar, the African Union, and Togo for their steadfast support in advancing peace and stability in eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/drc-rwanda-initial-regional-economic-integration-framework
