Representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Rwanda, the United States, Qatar, Togo, and the African Union Commission met in Washington, D.C. on September 17-18, 2025 for the second meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM). The purpose of this meeting was to move forward with implementing the Peace Agreement signed on June 27, 2025.
During the meeting, participants reviewed security conditions in eastern DRC and shared intelligence to form a common understanding of developments on the ground. This collaborative approach helped develop a phased plan to carry out operations aimed at neutralizing the FDLR and related groups. It also included steps for Rwanda to begin disengaging its forces and lifting defensive measures.
The governments of DRC and Rwanda confirmed their ongoing commitment to achieving goals set out in the Concept of Operations (CONOPS). These goals include eliminating the FDLR threat within DRC territory, removing Rwandan defensive actions, restoring Congolese authority in affected areas, and rebuilding trust between both countries.
An Operational Order (OPORD) was negotiated during the two-day session. All parties agreed that implementation of this order would begin on October 1, 2025.
Both DRC and Rwanda expressed appreciation for support from the United States, Qatar, Togo as facilitator for the African Union, and other partners involved in promoting peace efforts.
All parties reiterated their commitment to working toward lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC and throughout the Great Lakes region.