FRI DEC 05 2025-theGBJournal| The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda on Thursday, signed a historic deal on Thursday in Washington, to end the decades of conflict, foster economic cooperation, and build a foundation for lasting peace.
The US President Donald J. Trump hosted the signing of the accords, even as fresh violence raised questions about the deal to end one of Africa’s longest wars.
The peace agreement was signed by President Paul Kagame of the Republic of Rwanda and President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, welcoming the peace agreement describes this development as a significant milestone in the pursuit of lasting peace, security, and stability in the Great Lakes region.
African Union Commission Chair hailed the constructive support provided by the United States, including the personal engagement of President Donald Trump, whose commitment helped create conditions conducive to this outcome.
He equally commended the State of Qatar for its diplomatic backing and support, for its and its readiness to support African-led peace initiatives.
Mr. Youssouf called on all parties to faithfully implement the agreement in both letter and spirit, ensuring that this moment becomes a foundation for reconciliation, regional cooperation, and sustainable peace.
He assured that the African Union Commission stands ready to accompany the parties and regional mechanisms in advancing this vital process for the benefit of the peoples of the DRC, Rwanda, and the wider region.
The Washington Accords reaffirm the parties’ commitment to implement the Peace Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, agreed to in Washington, D.C. on June 27, 2025, and achieve the vision of the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF) to create a bold roadmap for peace, security, and unprecedented economic growth.
The DRC and Rwanda signed the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF), a groundbreaking bilateral initiative that unlocks the vast economic potential of the Great Lakes region and creates opportunities for the U.S. private sector.
The signing ceremony was attended by Togolese President of the Council of Ministers Faure Gnassingbé, Angolan President João Lourenço, Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, Kenyan President William Ruto, African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo, Qatari Minister of State Dr. Mohammed Al Khulaifi and Emirati Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan.
In addition to the Washington Accords, the following bilateral instruments were signed, hosted by Secretary Rubio:
-Strategic Partnership Agreement between the United States and the Democratic Republic of the Congo
-Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of the United States and the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Concerning an Expanded Security Partnership
-U.S.-Rwanda Framework for Shared Economic Prosperity
The US Government said, the Washington Accords and the initiatives affirmed Thursday represent an internationally shared commitment to transforming the Great Lakes region into a model of peace, stability, and economic opportunity.
”By addressing the root causes of conflict, fostering trust, and advancing economic cooperation, the DRC and Rwanda are taking bold steps to create a brighter future for their citizens”
The United States said it ”remains steadfast in its support for these efforts, recognizing the immense economic potential of the Great Lakes region will only be realized through the full implementation of peace and security commitments.”
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