In a major step towards peace, the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23 rebel group signed a declaration of principles in Doha on Saturday, aiming to end the long-running conflict in the country’s eastern region.
After months of negotiations mediated by Qatar, the declaration lays out a shared framework of core principles, setting the stage for continued talks and a potential comprehensive peace deal. "The agreement outlines the key principles both parties have committed to," said Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, Qatari minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Security conditions in eastern DRC have deteriorated sharply since January, with M23 forces seizing key cities like Goma and Bukavu. This resurgence of fighting has displaced hundreds of thousands of people and deepened an already dire humanitarian emergency.
Qatar’s ongoing mediation efforts aim to keep negotiations on track, with the goal of bringing stability, development, and relief to affected communities. As both sides move from signing to substantive dialogue, the eyes of the world will be on the next round of talks that could reshape the future of eastern DRC.
For young global citizens, business leaders, and changemakers alike, the Doha declaration offers a data-driven glimpse into how diplomacy and international collaboration can lay the groundwork for lasting peace.
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DR Congo govt, M23 sign declaration of principles to end conflict
cgtn.com
