GCC Praises Qatar and US for Mediating Rwanda-DRC Peace Deal Amid Escalating Conflict
QATAR – Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), commended Qatar and the United States for their crucial mediation efforts that resulted in the recent peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The deal aims to ease long-standing tensions in the conflict-ridden eastern DRC, where fighting between armed groups has escalated since 2021.
Escalating Violence in Mineral-Rich Eastern DRC
The eastern DRC, home to vast reserves of critical minerals such as cobalt, coltan, lithium, tin, and gold, has been a hotspot of violence for decades. However, clashes have intensified in recent years, with numerous armed groups vying for control over resources and territory. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians, exacerbating a severe humanitarian crisis.
Hope for Peace and Stability
Albudaiwi expressed optimism that the newly signed agreement could help de-escalate tensions, enhance regional security, and pave the way for economic prosperity. “This peace deal marks a significant step toward ending the bloodshed and suffering of innocent civilians,” he said.
Qatar’s Growing Diplomatic Role & GCC’s Commitment to Peace
Highlighting Qatar’s pivotal role in facilitating the agreement, Albudaiwi noted that it reflects the GCC’s increasing engagement in global conflict resolution. “Qatar’s leadership in this process demonstrates the GCC’s dedication to supporting peaceful solutions and promoting stability worldwide,” he stated.
The GCC remains committed to diplomatic efforts and dialogue as key tools for resolving crises and fostering sustainable development, Albudaiwi added. The council continues to advocate for international cooperation to address conflicts and humanitarian challenges, particularly in resource-rich yet volatile regions like the DRC.
A Path Forward
While the peace agreement offers hope, experts caution that lasting stability will require continued international support, demobilization of armed factions, and equitable resource management. The involvement of regional and global actors, including GCC nations, could play a decisive role in ensuring the deal’s success.
As the DRC and Rwanda move toward reconciliation, the international community watches closely, recognizing that peace in the region could have far-reaching implications for both African stability and global supply chains dependent on the DRC’s critical minerals.
BY: The Times Union
