Africa-Press – Ethiopia. A significant breakthrough in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s conflict emerged Saturday.
A new agreement of principles was signed between the DRC government and the M23 rebel group.
Qatar’s crucial mediation efforts facilitated this pivotal development.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf swiftly welcomed the signing of the Peace Agreement between DR Congo and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) today in Doha, Qatar.
Similarly, French President Emmanuel Macron lauded the landmark accord.
He expressed gratitude for Qatar’s role and the Emir’s diplomatic endeavors.
Macron also hailed the agreement as a powerful, positive signal for regional peace. He underscored its potential to restore hope and confidence.
“For the Congolese people and the Great Lakes region, the peace dynamic is recreating hope and confidence,” Macron stated on X. France, he affirmed, remains committed to supporting peace initiatives. Its dedication to stability in the region is unwavering.
The European Union also welcomed the new declaration. An EU spokesperson characterized it as “an important step towards a lasting peace agreement.” The EU urged both parties to implement the principles in good faith. Engagement from relevant regional actors is also deemed essential.
Representatives from Congo and M23 formalized the declaration in Doha. Weeks of intense diplomatic engagement preceded this signing. Earlier discussions had also taken place in Washington. This agreement marks a turning point in the protracted conflict.
Fierce fighting previously gripped the region. M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, captured Goma and Bukavu in January. The devastating conflict has claimed thousands of lives. It has also displaced hundreds of thousands of people.
This new accord follows a separate Congolese-Rwandan peace deal. That agreement was signed last month in Washington. These diplomatic efforts collectively aim to bring enduring stability. They seek to end the immense suffering in the heart of Africa.
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