United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the signing of the Doha Declaration between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel movement, calling it a significant step toward peace and stability in the region.
In a post shared on his official account on X, Guterres reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting peace efforts, protecting civilians, and fostering long-term stability in the DRC. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with national authorities and international and regional partners.
The landmark agreement, brokered in the Qatari capital after months of intensive negotiations, has been met with widespread international approval. The U.S. Department of State praised Qatar’s pivotal role in facilitating the peace process and helping to secure a peaceful resolution to the long-running conflict. In a statement, Washington described the deal as a complement to last month’s peace agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, signed in Washington, and part of broader efforts to secure lasting peace and prosperity across the Great Lakes region.
The African Union also applauded the Doha Declaration. In an official statement, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf hailed the agreement as “a major breakthrough” and a critical milestone in efforts to establish enduring peace and security in eastern DRC and the wider Great Lakes region.
From the Arab world, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) expressed strong support for Qatar’s mediation efforts and praised its persistent diplomatic engagement. The GCC commended Doha for its role in promoting regional and global peace and security.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also welcomed the agreement, voicing hope that the declaration would serve as a positive step toward improving humanitarian and economic conditions in the DRC, and contribute to enhanced regional and international stability.
The agreement follows several months of talks hosted by Qatar since March, with direct participation from both parties under Qatari sponsorship and with broad international backing, including from the United States. The Doha Declaration is seen as a crucial opening toward a peaceful settlement in a region long plagued by conflict and humanitarian crises.
