Congo-Kinshasa Diplomatic Rhythms: Major Statement Signals New Cultural Era

The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), alongside representatives from Qatar, the United States, Togo (as the African Union mediator), Switzerland, and the African Union Commission, convened in Switzerland from August 17 to August 21, 2026. These crucial meetings were held to discuss the implementation of the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which was signed in Doha on November 15, 2025. The discussions focused on evaluating progress made, identifying challenges, and charting a clear path forward for fulfilling existing obligations and commitments, as well as negotiating the remaining protocols under the significant peace framework.

A notable achievement highlighted during the Swiss discussions was the continued operationalization of the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+). This included the successful establishment of its Secretariat, a vital step towards enhancing transparency and trust. Furthermore, an EJVM+ reconnaissance mission, conducted on August 20 with logistical support from MONUSCO, was completed in preparation for the inaugural EJVM+ ceasefire verification mission, which is scheduled for August 24 in Minembwe. The parties underscored the critical importance of implementing a standardized method for accurately reporting allegations of ceasefire violations, aiming to prevent disputes and ensure accountability.

In a move to reinforce the peace process, the parties collectively agreed to establish a dedicated mechanism. This body will be specifically tasked with continuously reviewing the progress of implementation and addressing any challenges that arise concerning obligations and commitments outlined in the Doha Framework Agreement. Following a thorough evaluation, a comprehensive roadmap was developed, detailing sequenced steps and clear timelines for future negotiations under the Framework Agreement. Both the Government of the DRC and the AFC/M23 committed to approaching these negotiations with flexibility and creativity, ensuring adaptability within the existing structural provisions of the Framework Agreement.

It was explicitly agreed that the order in which protocols are negotiated would not dictate the order of their subsequent implementation, providing practical flexibility. Both parties unequivocally reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to pursuing negotiations aimed at achieving comprehensive peace and sustainable conflict resolution through the diligent implementation of the Framework Agreement. Recommendations were also shared with the facilitation team regarding strategies for fostering constructive negotiations and promoting the effective fulfillment of commitments undertaken by both sides. The representatives of the Government of the DRC and the AFC/M23 extended their profound gratitude to the State of Qatar, the United States of America, the Republic of Togo (in its role as AU Mediator), Switzerland, and the African Union Commission for their persistent and invaluable support in advancing peace and stability within the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the broader Great Lakes region.