Historic Peace Deal Signed Between Congo and Rwanda, Mediated by the United States – White House
Washington, June 28, 2025
After nearly three decades of deadly conflict, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have signed a historic peace agreement in Washington, D.C., on Friday, under joint mediation by the United States and Qatar. The landmark event, held at the White House, was attended by the foreign ministers of both countries along with top U.S. diplomats.
Earlier this year, the conflict escalated further due to advances by M23 rebel forces, resulting in thousands of deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. In this context, the peace deal offers a message of renewed hope.
Key Statements:
Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe stated:
“We believe we’ve reached a turning point in our relations with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”
Congolese Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner emphasized practical implementation:
“This peace agreement must be realized through disarmament of rebel groups, justice, and the return of displaced persons.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the agreement as a diplomatic victory:
“After thirty years of war, this is a significant moment.”
Geopolitical Implications:
The deal is expected to increase U.S. and American corporate access to Africa’s valuable mineral resources—especially at a time when U.S.-China rivalry over influence in Africa is intensifying.
While analysts view the agreement as a major diplomatic breakthrough, they caution that it does not guarantee an end to conflict. Since the 1990s, the Congo-Rwanda conflict has claimed the lives of over a million people.
“The seeds of peace have been planted; now is the time to nurture them,” said a spokesperson from the African Union.
