Representatives from the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/Mouvement du 23 mars (AFC/M23) have reached an agreement to establish a dedicated mechanism. This body will be tasked with evaluating the advancements made and addressing ongoing challenges related to fulfilling the commitments outlined in the Doha framework agreement. This significant development was announced on Saturday, August 22.
Among the key accomplishments noted is the successful formation of the secretariat for the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+). Furthermore, a reconnaissance mission by the EJVM+, conducted on August 20 with crucial logistical backing from MONUSCO, preceded the inaugural ceasefire verification mission scheduled for August 24 in Minembwe. The parties also achieved consensus on the importance of adopting a standardized methodology for reporting any violations of the ceasefire.
Roadmap and mutual commitments
The negotiating parties have meticulously crafted a comprehensive roadmap, which delineates the specific steps and a clear timeline for discussions under the umbrella of the Doha Agreement. They have emphatically reaffirmed their dedication to continuing these dialogues, aiming for a lasting and comprehensive peace. It was clarified that the sequence in which protocols are negotiated does not dictate the order of their subsequent implementation.
Both the DRC and AFC/M23 representatives extended their sincere appreciation to Qatar, the United States, Togo, Switzerland, and the African Union Commission for their unwavering commitment and support towards fostering peace in the volatile Eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.
Massad Boulos, the senior advisor for Africa and the Middle East to the American President, shared his perspective on his X account:
« I am delighted to observe further progress stemming from the meetings held in Switzerland, aimed at advancing the Doha Framework for a comprehensive peace agreement between the Government of the DRC and the AFC/M23. The United States remains committed to promoting peace and stability in Eastern DRC and the Great Lakes region. »
