In a significant push towards implementing the landmark Peace Agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, the United States successfully facilitated two sets of meetings on July 30 through August 1, 2025, at its Washington, D.C. headquarters. The bilateral initiative focused on advancing security aspects of the agreement and building a framework for regional economic growth opportunities.
Representatives from the DRC and Rwanda, facilitated by the US, initialed the text of the Regional Economic Integration Framework Tenets on August 1, marking an important milestone in the implementation of the Peace Agreement. The two countries will work together to unlock the immense economic potential of the Great Lakes region by implementing key areas such as energy, infrastructure, mining, national park management and tourism, and public health.
The joint coordination efforts aim to drive economic progress and improve the lives of people across the region. A Joint Oversight Committee was also established during this week’s meetings, with representatives from the DRC, Rwanda, the US, Qatar, Togo (as the African Union facilitator), and the African Union Commission coming together for the first time. The committee serves as a platform to implement the Peace Agreement and resolve disputes.
At its inaugural meeting, participants appointed Chairpersons to the Commission, agreed on governing terms, and prepared for the launch of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism. This marks a crucial step forward in implementing the Peace Agreement, with both countries taking meaningful actions to advance security and economic cooperation.
The US reaffirms its commitment to supporting these efforts and looks forward to hosting the Summit of the Heads of State in Washington, D.C., to drive peace, stability, and economic prosperity in the region. As progress is made in implementing the Peace Agreement, the international community will be closely watching developments in the Great Lakes region.
Key Developments:
- US facilitates meetings between DRC and Rwanda to advance security and economic cooperation under the Peace Agreement.
- DRC and Rwanda initiate Regional Economic Integration Framework Tenets, a key requirement outlined in the agreement.
- Joint Oversight Committee established to support implementation of the Peace Agreement.
Conclusion:
The successful US-hosted meetings represent a significant step forward in implementing the Peace Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda. By advancing security and economic cooperation, both countries are working towards achieving long-term stability and durable peace in the Great Lakes region. As progress is made, the international community will be watching closely to ensure that this historic agreement yields tangible results for the people of the region.