WASHINGTON (Chatnewstv.com) — Representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda initialed a new framework for regional economic integration this week, a concrete step forward even as officials acknowledged “lagging progress” in implementing a broader peace deal.
The move came during the fourth meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee (Committee) in Washington, D.C., which convened to assess the June 27, 2025, Peace Agreement between the two nations.
The Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF), initialed by DRC and Rwandan representatives, “outlines key areas for fostering economic cooperation and development between the two nations,” according to a joint statement released by the United States, Qatar, Togo, and the African Union.
The REIF demonstrates “the tangible benefits of peace and creating opportunities for investment and growth that directly benefit people in the region,” the statement read.
Focus on Economic Ties Amid Peace Delays
The implementation of the economic framework, however, remains dependent on the satisfactory execution of military and security provisions under the Peace Agreement.
The Committee, which included the United States, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (as the African Union mediator), and the African Union Commission, committed to “redouble efforts” to implement the Washington Peace Agreement.
The joint statement highlighted specific military and security obligations that require renewed focus:
Neutralizing the FDLR: The parties agreed on specific near-term actions for neutralizing the FDLR armed group and its associated groups.
Disengagement of Forces: Efforts were reviewed for advancing the disengagement of forces and the lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda.
Refraining from Hostile Rhetoric: The parties “reaffirmed their commitment to refrain from hostile actions or rhetoric, particularly political attacks or language that would undermine or complicate the full implementation of the Peace Agreement.”
Doha Talks Show Progress
The Committee welcomed updates on ongoing negotiations in Doha, Qatar, between the DRC and the AFC/M23 rebel group. Qatar provided an update highlighting progress on key issues, including prisoner exchanges.
Officials also welcomed the first convening of the Doha ceasefire monitoring mechanism on November 5, expressing “strong support for these efforts” and emphasizing the “critical role of the Doha process in advancing the broader implementation of the Peace Agreement.”
Both the DRC and Rwanda expressed gratitude to the mediating and supporting nations—the United States, Qatar, the African Union, and Togo—for their commitment to advancing peace and stability in eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.
