The governments of the United States, Democratic Republic of the Congo, France, Qatar, Rwanda, and Togo have issued a joint statement following a trilateral meeting held in Doha on March 18, 2025. The meeting included heads of state from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Qatar. This gathering was part of ongoing efforts to address the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Representatives from these nations met in Doha to emphasize their commitment to peace, stability, and economic development in the Great Lakes region. Discussions centered on addressing the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and maintaining dialogue between its government and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23rd (AFC/M23) movement. The humanitarian situation in the region remains critical and requires an urgent coordinated response.
The representatives acknowledged a joint declaration facilitated by Qatar between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and AFC/M23. This declaration focuses on commitments to a ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian assistance. They agreed on addressing root causes through dialogue for sustainable peace.
There was also consensus on resolving conflicts promptly while respecting African Union and United Nations resolutions regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Progress made after a joint EAC-SADC summit in Dar es Salaam on February 8, 2025, was commended. The signing of a Declaration of Principles in Washington D.C. on April 25, 2025, marked significant advancements. The representatives expressed readiness to contribute to ongoing efforts promoting mutual trust and peaceful conflict resolution under African Union leadership by Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé.
Appreciation was extended to Qatar for hosting discussions. The parties reaffirmed their commitment to continued dialogue for a peaceful future for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its region.