UN Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the signing of a “Declaration of Principles” between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23 rebel movement, describing it as an important step toward lasting peace in the country’s east.
The agreement, signed in Doha following intense negotiations mediated by Qatar, outlines a permanent ceasefire, protection of civilians, and the restoration of state authority in conflict-affected areas.
Guterres praised the diplomatic efforts that led to the accord and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting the peace process in cooperation with regional and international partners.
Other nations, including France, Rwanda, Turkey, and the United States, also welcomed the announcement and commended Qatar’s pivotal role in facilitating the agreement.
The deal comes just weeks after Congo and Rwanda signed a separate agreement in Washington at the end of June aimed at easing regional tensions.
However, key challenges remain, particularly the withdrawal of M23 forces from occupied territories and the dismantling of parallel administrations established by the group.
Congo and several Western governments have long accused Rwanda of backing M23 — allegations that Kigali consistently denies.
