Congo, M23 to sign declaration to end conflict in eastern region

Congo and the M23 rebel group have agreed on a declaration of principles after months of Qatar-mediated talks, aiming to end fighting in the country’s east.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels have reached a declaration of principles to ease violence in eastern Congo, a region plagued by years of conflict. The deal, expected to be signed in Doha, includes an immediate ceasefire and a commitment to begin formal negotiations on a broader peace agreement.

The agreement follows months of mediation led by Qatar and pressure from the United States, which sees the peace effort as key to unlocking investment in Congo’s mineral-rich eastern provinces.

Fighting between M23 and Congolese forces, supported by regional actors, has intensified since January, with the rebels capturing major territory across North and South Kivu provinces. Thousands have been killed and hundreds of thousands displaced.

Qatar previously brokered a surprise meeting in March between Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, calling for an unconditional ceasefire. Direct talks between Congo and M23 followed, despite Kinshasa initially branding the group a terrorist organization.

Negotiators say the declaration outlines steps for a lasting ceasefire and the eventual restoration of state authority in rebel-held areas. However, there are still unresolved issues, including M23’s withdrawal, the reopening of banks, and the release of detained fighters.

The UN and Western governments have accused Rwanda of backing M23 with troops and weapons — allegations Kigali denies, saying its forces are defending against Hutu militias linked to the 1994 genocide.

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