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Key Points

The African Union has welcomed the Congo-M23 declaration as a pivotal step toward ending violence in eastern DRC. AU Chair Youssouf praised regional mediators and Qatar's discreet diplomacy in brokering the agreement. While not a final peace deal, the document sets guiding principles for further negotiations. The AU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting lasting stability across the Great Lakes region.

Key Points: AU Hails Congo M23 Peace Deal as Major Step for DRC Stability

  • AU Chair Youssouf lauds Congo-M23 declaration as peace breakthrough
  • Qatar-mediated deal outlines principles for future talks
  • East African and SADC facilitators credited for contributions
  • AU pledges continued support for DRC stability
2 min read

AU welcomes latest development between Congo, M23

African Union praises Congo-M23 declaration in Doha, calling it a breakthrough for peace in eastern DRC and regional cooperation.

"Major milestone in the ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace, security, and stability in eastern DRC – Mahmoud Ali Youssouf"

Addis Ababa, July 20

African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has welcomed the signing of a declaration of principles between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the March 23 Movement (M23) in Doha, Qatar, to end the conflict in the eastern DRC.

In a statement issued Saturday, Youssouf described the declaration as a "major milestone in the ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace, security, and stability in eastern DRC and the wider Great Lakes region."

Appreciating the invaluable contributions made by all stakeholders, including the regional facilitators from the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community, Youssouf said the declaration offers a renewed hope for regional cooperation and sustainable peace.

The chairperson of the 55-member continental organisation also commended the spirit of dialogue, compromise, and political will demonstrated by the governments of the DRC and Rwanda, Xinhua news agency reported.

The AU remains fully committed to working with all stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the declaration and to contribute to sustainable peace, security, and development in the DRC and the region, the statement added.

The document, brokered by Qatar after months of discreet mediation, outlines a series of agreed-upon principles to guide further talks. While not a final peace deal, the declaration marks a key step toward a comprehensive agreement, Xinhua news agency reported.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, Qatari minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the declaration reflects the parties' commitment to a peaceful settlement. He said Qatar remains committed to supporting the process to bring peace, development, and stability to the DRC people.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Qatar's role here is interesting. They're becoming major peace brokers globally. Meanwhile in India, we're still struggling with basic diplomatic relations with some neighbors. Maybe we need to rethink our strategies.
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Aman W
As an Indian who has worked in Africa, I can say such peace deals often look good on paper but implementation is tough. The DRC has mineral wealth that makes peace difficult to sustain. Hope this time it's different.
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Sarah B
Why isn't India playing a bigger role in African peace processes? We have historical ties and could offer valuable experience in conflict resolution. The AU-India partnership should be strengthened.
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Vikram M
Good news, but let's not celebrate too soon. The eastern DRC has seen many failed peace deals before. The real test will be whether armed groups on the ground actually lay down weapons. Fingers crossed 🤞
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Nisha Z
The AU deserves credit for consistent efforts, but I'm concerned about Rwanda's role here. Their involvement in DRC conflicts is complicated. Hope this declaration addresses root causes properly.
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Karthik V
While this is positive, I wish Indian media gave more coverage to African affairs. We're so focused on US-Europe-China that we miss important developments in our own continent (Asia) and our sister continent Africa.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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