Washington: The United States of America, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of Rwanda, the Republic of Togo (as African Union mediator), and the African Union Commission praised the leadership role played by the State of Qatar in facilitating the signing of the Doha Framework Agreement for Peace between the DRC Government and the Congo River Alliance (M23 Movement) on Nov. 15.
This recognition came in the Joint Statement on the Fourth Meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM) for the Peace Agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda, held in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 19-20. The meeting aimed to advance the implementation of the Washington Peace Agreement signed on June 27, 2025.
Participants also discussed the broader peace process, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong links between the Doha and Washington tracks. Both the DRC and Rwanda expressed appreciation to Qatar, the United States, and the African Union for their continued support and facilitation of the peace efforts.
The meeting discussed progress in Phase One of the Operations Order (OPORD), including updates on intelligence sharing and public outreach campaigns by the DRC to raise awareness in accessible communities and encourage members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) to disarm.
Both countries acknowledged that FDLR elements continue to disarm and enter resettlement programs.
Open discussions were held to address ongoing challenges, identify gaps, and explore opportunities to ensure the success of Phase One.
JSCM members also began deliberations on Phase Two, which will focus on measures to neutralize remaining FDLR forces.
