Representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, along with officials from the United States, Qatar, Togo (as the African Union mediator), and the African Union Commission, gathered in Washington, D.C. on November 19-20 for the fourth meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM). The purpose of this meeting was to further implement the Washington Peace Agreement, which was signed on June 27, 2025.
During the session, both DRC and Rwanda reaffirmed their commitment to advancing an Operations Order (OPORD) that supports a Harmonized Plan for neutralizing the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda) and disengaging forces or lifting defensive measures by Rwanda. Observers from JSCM acknowledged ongoing efforts by both parties to facilitate demobilization, repatriation, and reintegration of FDLR members.
Participants reviewed progress made in Phase One of OPORD. This included intelligence sharing and information campaigns conducted by DRC to inform communities and encourage FDLR members to disarm. The discussions also addressed current challenges and explored opportunities to improve implementation during this phase. Additionally, JSCM members began initial talks on Phase Two of OPORD, which will focus on neutralizing FDLR elements and lifting Rwanda’s defensive measures.
The broader peace process was also discussed at the meeting. Attendees praised "the recent signing of The Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement Between the Government of the DRC and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23rd Movement DRC and Qatar’s leadership in facilitating the agreement." JSCM participants highlighted "the benefit of maintaining close linkages between the Doha and Washington processes."
Both DRC and Rwanda expressed gratitude towards "the United States, Qatar, and the African Union for their continued support and facilitation of the peace process." They also thanked Togo for its upcoming role as host of a High-Level Meeting focused on consolidating peace efforts in DRC and across Africa's Great Lakes Region scheduled for January 17, 2026.
The statement concluded with appreciation extended to President Trump "for the indispensable role he played throughout the process." All parties reiterated their commitment to promoting lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC and throughout the region.