The United States announced a renewed commitment from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to work collaboratively towards easing tensions and revitalizing a previously established peace agreement that has not successfully curbed the ongoing violence in the region.
In June, the two nations had signed a pivotal agreement in Washington following a surge in conflict attributed to Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, who have captured extensive territories in the mineral-rich eastern DRC. Despite this diplomatic effort, violence on the ground has continued unabated, leading to escalating accusations. Recently, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of pursuing intentions to annex parts of eastern Congo.
Amid this turmoil, US President Donald Trump has often highlighted the DRC-Rwanda agreement as a significant achievement, positioning it among several conflicts he claims to have resolved. He believes that stabilizing the situation could facilitate access to essential minerals necessary for advanced technological development.
In a meeting held in Washington, representatives from both nations acknowledged the slow progress made since the agreement and pledged to intensify their efforts to implement the Washington Peace Agreement. A joint statement released by the US State Department highlighted that both sides had agreed on specific near-term actions concerning key aspects of the accord.
Central to the discussions was Rwanda’s demand for the DRC to take action against the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an ethnic Hutu group with historical ties to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. Rwanda has stated that it will cease its “defensive measures” only after significant steps are taken against the FDLR.
Additionally, the parties expressed a commitment to avoiding hostile actions or undermining rhetoric that could jeopardize the full implementation of the peace agreement, particularly in international forums. The statement also confirmed that the countries had formalized an economic agreement that had been previously negotiated.
The discussions involved mediation efforts from Qatar, a vital partner of the US, along with the participation of the African Union, underscoring the international efforts to stabilize the region and promote lasting peace.
