The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23-led Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) have signed a historic Declaration of Principles in Doha, Qatar, aimed at stopping the deadly conflict in eastern DRC.
The agreement signed on Saturday 19 July 2025, following Qatar-led talks supported by international and regional partners includes key commitments such as a permanent ceasefire, withdrawal of rebel forces from occupied areas, and future discussions on a full peace deal.
Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, who led the mediation efforts, praised both sides for choosing peace.
“I thank both parties for this agreement, their efforts and commitment to this path of negotiations, hoping that it will further be developed into a comprehensive agreement that guarantees peace in DRC,” he said.
DRC Government Spokesperson and Minister of Communication Hon. Patrick Muyaya said the declaration respects the country’s laws and international principles.
“The Declaration of Principles is based on strict respect for the Constitution of the DRC, the UN Charter, and AU resolutions. It confirms our stand M23 must withdraw from occupied areas and allow full deployment of state institutions,” he noted.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, welcomed the signing as a turning point for the Great Lakes region.
“This is a major milestone in the efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC. I commend the constructive role played by Qatar and the United States, and the support from regional bodies like the EAC and SADC,” he said.
Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign Affairs, MaximePrévot, also hailed the deal.
“This progress marks a crucial moment in the quest for peace. I commend Qatar’s leadership and urge all parties to fully implement their commitments,” he stated.
According to the document, the two parties acknowledged that restoring full government authority across all areas of Congo is essential for lasting peace. “The parties recognize that the complete restoration of state authority on all national territories constitutes a key component for the peace agreement, which will include the modalities and process of such restoration,” it reads.
The document also highlights the need to help Congolese refugees and displaced persons return safely to their homes.
“The parties commit to facilitating the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced persons to their areas or countries of origin,” the agreement states.
This will be done according to agreements between the DRC, countries hosting the refugees, and the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), and in line with international humanitarian law.
On security, both parties agreed to promote the protection of civilians and respect the ceasefire. “The parties in principle commit to protecting, facilitating, and promoting the protection of civilian populations, as well as the implementation of the ceasefire with the support of MONUSCO and regional mechanisms,” the document says.
For the peace process to succeed, both sides must now implement their agreements without delay and with full commitment.
