Rwanda Welcomes Ceasefire Deal as Breakthrough for Peace in Eastern DRC
DOHA – In a landmark development for regional peace and stability, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 armed group—widely believed to have links with Rwanda—signed a ceasefire agreement on Saturday following three months of diplomatic negotiations in Doha, Qatar. The deal, hailed as a major step forward, comes on the heels of a broader Congolese-Rwandan peace accord signed in Washington last month.
The truce, outlined in a “Declaration of Principles,” commits both parties to an immediate and permanent cessation of hostilities and the rejection of hate propaganda or territorial aggression. The African Union has lauded the development as a “significant milestone” toward long-term peace and security in the conflict-stricken Great Lakes region.
The Government of Rwanda has consistently advocated for dialogue and a political solution to the crisis in eastern DRC, emphasizing the need for regional coordination and mutual respect for sovereignty. The signing of this ceasefire reflects Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace, reconciliation, and security in Central Africa.
Under the terms of the deal, both sides have pledged to open negotiations for a comprehensive peace agreement and to implement ceasefire provisions by July 29, with direct peace talks scheduled to begin by August 8. A key component of the agreement includes restoring state authority in eastern DRC and ensuring the non-negotiable withdrawal of M23 forces from occupied zones.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi are expected to meet in the coming months to advance the Washington peace accord and reaffirm their shared responsibility for regional stability.
This breakthrough comes after decades of conflict in eastern Congo, an area rich in natural resources but plagued by violence and displacement. Rwanda, despite being frequently accused by international actors of backing rebel movements, has maintained that it supports peace through diplomacy and constructive engagement.
As the region moves toward implementation of the ceasefire, Rwanda remains a key stakeholder and partner in shaping a secure, integrated, and prosperous future for Central Africa.
BY: The Times Union
