Delegations from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have met for the first time since signing a U.S.-brokered peace agreement aimed at ending years of fighting in eastern Congo, the two governments announced Friday.
The meeting, held Thursday, established leadership for the joint oversight committee and approved terms of reference for its work. According to a joint statement, the session centered on progress in implementing the June 27 accord.
The oversight committee will serve as a forum to monitor implementation, address disputes, and receive complaints about violations of the agreement.
Representatives from the United States, Qatar, and Togo, which acted as mediators on behalf of the African Union, attended as observers.
“Both DRC and Rwanda expressed their appreciation for the invaluable contributions and joint efforts of the African Union, the United States, and Qatar as partners in advancing a peaceful resolution,” the statement said.
Signed by the foreign ministers of both countries, the June 27 agreement calls for an end to hostilities, respect for Congo’s territorial integrity, disarmament of armed groups, and broader measures to stabilize the region.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has pledged that Rwanda will fulfill its obligations under the accord, while DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba vowed Kinshasa’s commitment to achieving lasting peace, security, and development in the eastern provinces long scarred by conflict.