The United States hosted meetings from July 30 to August 1, 2025, aimed at advancing the implementation of the Peace Agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. The agreement was signed in Washington, D.C. on June 27, 2025. These discussions focused on security measures and creating a framework for regional economic growth in the Great Lakes region.
On August 1, representatives from both countries initialed the Regional Economic Integration Framework Tenets. This step fulfills a requirement of the Peace Agreement and sets out joint coordination in areas such as energy, infrastructure, mining, national park management and tourism, and public health. The goal is to drive economic progress and improve conditions for people living in the Great Lakes region.
Additionally, on July 31, delegations from DRC and Rwanda held their first meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee to support implementation of the Peace Agreement. The United States observed this meeting along with representatives from Qatar, Togo (as African Union facilitator), and the African Union Commission. The committee is intended to oversee implementation efforts and resolve disputes related to the agreement. At this session, participants appointed Chairpersons to the Commission, set governing terms, and prepared for launching a Joint Security Coordination Mechanism.
According to a statement: "This week’s meetings represent a significant step forward in implementing the Peace Agreement, with the DRC and Rwanda taking meaningful actions to advance security and economic cooperation. The United States reaffirms its commitment to supporting these efforts and, as the parties make progress implementing the Peace Agreement, looks forward to hosting the Summit of the Heads of State in Washington, D.C., to drive peace, stability, and economic prosperity."
The bilateral initiative seeks long-term stability by unlocking economic potential that depends on effective peace agreement implementation.