DR Congo, M23 sign framework for peace agreement in Doha

Doha, Qatar: The Doha Framework for the Peace Agreement between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Allia...

Doha, Qatar: The Doha Framework for the Peace Agreement between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Alliance (M23 Movement) was signed yesterday in Doha.

The agreement, signed in the presence of Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H E Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, marks a new and important milestone in the ongoing peace process facilitated by Qatar.

The new pact has been developed on the momentum of the Doha Declaration of Principles signed on July 19 in Doha. The framework reaffirms the parties’ shared commitment to addressing the root causes of the conflict through structured dialogue, confidence-building measures, and a phased approach to de-escalation and stabilisation.

Addressing a joint press conference along Presidential Envoy and Senior Advisor for Africa at the US Department of State H E Massad Boulos; H E Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi appreciated the confidence placed by both sides in the State of Qatar and its pivotal role as a committed mediator tasked with facilitating the peace process and pushing it forward toward peace and stability.

“The strength of any mediation lies in the trust granted by the parties to the mediator and in the mediator’s ability to navigate complexities with fairness and impartiality. We would also like to praise the significant support provided by President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo H E Félix Tshisekedi, and his firm backing of all efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful settlement of this process. Likewise, we commend the constructive cooperation shown by the leader of the M23 Movement, Bertrand Bisimwa, for his positive engagement during the negotiation sessions.”