DRC: Qatar and Washington Push for Peace Despite Ongoing Violence in the East
While the signing of the Washington Agreement (June 27, 2025) and the Doha Declaration of Principles (July 19, 2025) had raised hopes for a historic turning point toward peace in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), violence continues to ravage the region.
On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Qatar reaffirmed its active role as a mediator. State Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi emphasized Qatar’s ongoing contribution to promoting dialogue and advancing the peace process in the Great Lakes region.
Qatar’s Key Role
Dr. Al Khulaifi reiterated his country’s support for the Washington Agreement, calling it “a major step toward lasting peace.” He highlighted that the Doha Declaration of Principles, signed between Kinshasa and the M23 under Qatar’s mediation, was another milestone in building compromise.
He also stressed Qatar’s active participation in the Joint Monitoring Committee, tasked with overseeing the implementation of the peace accords.
Multiple Diplomatic Efforts
The minister pointed to the “historic” trilateral meeting of March 18, 2025, organized by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, which brought together the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda for direct talks. He also recalled the Doha consultations of April 23, which resulted in a ceasefire agreement between Kinshasa and the M23.
Fragile Peace on the Ground
Despite these agreements, fighting continues. Since early 2025, the M23, backed by Kigali, has launched a sweeping offensive in North Kivu and South Kivu, occupying Goma and Bukavu.
At Doha, two documents were signed with the support of the ICRC, establishing a prisoner exchange mechanism. However, no direct signature occurred between Kinshasa and the rebels. Congo’s Minister of Justice Guillaume Ngefa has firmly ruled out releasing prisoners convicted of serious crimes, creating a major sticking point.
Beyond this impasse, mistrust dominates. Kinshasa condemned the M23/AFC for introducing new fighters, including former FARDC soldiers, urging them publicly to turn their weapons back against the rebels.
Between Diplomatic Optimism and Harsh Reality
Despite optimism expressed by Qatar and the United States, the situation on the ground remains volatile. Without trust and strict enforcement of commitments, the long-awaited peace in eastern DRC still appears distant.
🖊 Author: Mangwa
📖 Read more: Mecamediaafrica.com