Rwanda and DRC sign declaration of principles for eastern DRC; U.S. official witnesses

Representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda signed a declaration of principles committing both countries to mutual recognition of sovereignty, steps to address security concerns, regional economic integration and measures to facilitate the return of displaced persons.

The declaration was signed at a ceremony hosted with U.S. participation; the transcript records a U.S. official introduced in the program as Marco Rubio and later described in the ceremony as signing the document as a witness. The text of the declaration, as read at the event, also references support for MONUSCO and the drafting of a comprehensive peace agreement.

The declaration “establishes a fundamental understanding of regional governance, security, economic frameworks, and and end the fighting and allow the region to reach its full potential,” said Marco Rubio, who spoke during the ceremony and was recorded as a U.S. participant. Rubio also described the signing as evidence of U.S. interest in a durable peace and in opening the region to investment.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s representative, identified in the transcript as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (name not specified), framed the signature as “not as a symbolic gesture but as a political commitment,” and cited a recent United Nations Security Council action, reading the transcript phrase “UN Security Council Resolution 27 73” as part of the context calling for withdrawal of foreign troops. The minister said the DRC expects sequencing: peace first, then rebuilding trust and only then careful reopening to bilateral cooperation.

Olivier Noguiri, identified in the transcript as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Rwanda, said the declaration opens the door to addressing “root causes” and to linking regional economies, adding: “Our goal is a secure region free of violent ethnic extremism which is well governed.” He said Rwanda aims to continue working with partners to conclude a comprehensive peace agreement “as soon as possible,” while acknowledging “there are no shortcuts or quick fixes.”

A U.S. Department of State official present at the ceremony said, “Secretary Rubio is signing as a witness the declaration of principles between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the government of the Republic of Rwanda.” The official said the U.S. presence underlines U.S. interest in supporting a resolution and fostering “win win outcomes for all.”

The declaration’s text, as summarized at the ceremony, lists mutual recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity, steps to address security concerns, promotion of regional economic integration, facilitation of returns for displaced persons, support for MONUSCO, and drafting of a comprehensive peace agreement. The transcript records several references to the need for sequencing and accountability and to the idea that durable peace is a prerequisite for economic development and long-term returns of displaced people.

The transcript does not specify a date or venue for the ceremony beyond the recorded remarks. It cites a U.N. Security Council resolution using the transcript phrase “UN Security Council Resolution 27 73,” and it references a senior adviser, Mr. Bulos, in appreciation for consultation and support during the process.