Patrick Muyaya: RDC Commends Qatar’s Mediation as Doha Peace Deal Upholds National Sovereignty

Kinshasa, July 20, 2025 Democratic Republic of Congo’s government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to national sovereignty and lasting peace following the signing of a Declaration of Principles with the AFC/M23 coalition in Doha, under the mediation of Qatar.

The announcement comes just a day after the Congolese government publicly expressed gratitude to Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar for his key role in advancing diplomatic efforts to resolve the eastern conflict. According to the government, the mediation led to a significant milestone the signing of a framework that aligns with the Washington D.C. peace process and is expected to culminate in a comprehensive accord.

Speaking via his official platform, Patrick Muyaya said the Declaration strictly adheres to the Constitution of the DRC, the United Nations and African Union charters, international law, and UN Security Council Resolution 2773. He stressed that the agreement upholds Congo’s red lines, including the non-negotiable withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces from occupied territories and the reestablishment of full state authority through the deployment of national institutions such as the FARDC (army), PNC (police), and the judiciary.

“This Declaration lays out clear commitments to peace, the protection of civilians, and national sovereignty,” Muyaya stated. “It opens the way for a global peace accord that could be concluded in the coming days and bring a definitive end to the conflict in eastern DRC.”

The government also acknowledged the vital support of the international community, particularly the United States, in backing Qatar’s facilitation efforts. The DRC is now calling on the African Union, EAC, SADC, and global partners to reinforce support for the next phase of the peace process.

This development, Muyaya said, answers the deep aspirations of President Félix Tshisekedi to restore peace and stability to a region plagued by years of violence, displacement, and insecurity.

The Doha agreement is seen as a significant step toward restoring full territorial integrity in eastern Congo long affected by the activities of armed groups—while setting the stage for a final peace agreement.