Representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group have signed a new framework deal in Doha, Qatar. The agreement aims to guide the long process of ending years of conflict in eastern DRC. Although the situation on the ground may not change immediately, the deal gives both sides a clearer path toward peace.
Qatar and the United States announced the agreement after months of mediation. According to Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, the deal strengthens earlier talks and encourages both sides to “find peaceful solutions through dialogue and understanding.” Because of this, the peace process now has a stronger foundation.
The framework includes eight implementation protocols. Two of them are already in place: one on ceasefire monitoring and another on prisoner exchange. The remaining protocols will be finalized soon. They will set timelines, define humanitarian access routes, and outline how refugees and displaced families can return home. They will also focus on restoring state authority, improving economic governance, and reintegrating armed groups.
To ensure progress, both sides agreed to create an independent committee. This body will oversee the peace process and suggest ways to compensate victims as part of national reconciliation. Because the committee will follow the DRC constitution, it is expected to build trust and transparency.
Massad Boulos, the US envoy representing President Donald Trump, praised Qatar for facilitating the talks. He described the deal as a “launching pad” for a future peace settlement. However, he stressed that peace will not come instantly. “This is not a light switch you can turn on and off,” he said. Instead, each stage will require cooperation and patience.
On the ground, people in Goma reacted with cautious hope. Many residents want peace, yet they remain unsure about how quickly it will arrive. The M23 claimed it came under attack from government forces on the same morning the agreement was signed. Soon after, the group said it had captured additional territory. These events show how fragile the situation remains.
Even with the challenges, the Doha framework is one of the most structured agreements in recent years. If both sides follow through, it may mark the beginning of a slow but meaningful shift toward stability in eastern Congo.