On Saturday, the State of Qatar hosted a significant diplomatic milestone with the signing of a Declaration of Principles between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement (M23). The event, held at Doha Grand Sheraton Hotel marks a critical development in ongoing efforts to achieve peace and stability in eastern DRC.

The agreement is the culmination of months of Qatari-led mediation aimed at facilitating direct dialogue between the parties. Official representatives from both sides attended the ceremony, alongside a senior Qatari delegation. The Declaration of Principles outlines mutual commitments and a framework for future negotiations toward a comprehensive peace settlement.

Qatari Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, emphasized Qatar's belief in dialogue as a key tool for conflict resolution. He reaffirmed the country’s dedication to supporting political solutions in collaboration with the African Union and highlighted the agreement's complementarity with the recent Washington peace accord signed between the DRC and Rwanda on June 27.

Dr. Al Khulaifi underscored that the responsibility for implementing the agreement rests with both Congolese parties. He noted the declaration marks the start of direct negotiations aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict. Qatar, he said, has acted as a neutral and effective mediator, and he commended both parties for their commitment to peace and their willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.

Acknowledging the support of regional and international actors, Dr. Al Khulaifi praised the constructive roles played by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, the Congo River Alliance/M23 delegation led by Vice President Bernard Bisimwa, and Rwanda’s government. He also recognized the support of the United States, particularly through the efforts of U.S. Presidential Envoy Massad Boulos, as well as contributions from the African Union, France, the UK, and the Consultative Dialogue Group.

Qatar’s mediation began in March following a meeting in Doha between the Amir of State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, President Tshisekedi, and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda. That meeting sparked a series of negotiations marked by a spirit of mutual respect and a shared commitment to peaceful solutions.

The Declaration of Principles goes beyond a call to end violence. It includes provisions for reconciliation, the reintegration of armed groups choosing peace, the restoration of state authority, prisoner exchanges, and the return of displaced populations. International support is envisioned to play a key role in advancing peacebuilding and sustainable development in the DRC.

U.S. Envoy Massad Boulos lauded Qatar’s leadership, noting its longstanding role in global conflict mediation. He described the agreement as a rare opportunity to resolve a crisis that has displaced over eight million people, stressing the importance of sustained international engagement.

DRC Ambassador to Qatar, Valerie Lusamba Kabeya, expressed appreciation to the Amir of State of Qatar for his commitment to peace in Africa. She described the declaration as a vital step toward long-term stability for the Congolese people.