Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels sign declaration of principles to end conflict in eastern Congo

Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels have signed a declaration in Qatar to end decades of conflict in eastern Congo. The agreement announced Saturday includes a commitment to a permanent ceasefire and plans for a comprehensive peace deal within a month. It aims for the return of state authority in all areas, including places occupied by the rebels, as well as a prisoner exchange program. A final agreement is expected by Aug. 18, aligning with a U.S.-facilitated peace accord between Congo and Rwanda in June. This marks the first direct commitment from both sides since rebels seized key cities in eastern Congo. The M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, is one of over 100 armed factions in the region. The U.N. calls this conflict one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.