Congo and Rwanda sign a US-mediated deal aimed at ending conflict
The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda signed a US-brokered peace agreement on Friday aimed at ending decades of deadly conflict in eastern Congo and facilitating American access to critical minerals in the region.
'Today, the violence and destruction comes to an end, and the entire region begins a new chapter of hope and opportunity, harmony, prosperity and peace,' US President Donald Trump said at a White House meeting with the foreign ministers of both countries.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it 'an important moment after 30 years of war.'
Eastern Congo has been plagued by conflict since the 1990s, with more than 100 armed groups operating in the region. Many are believed to be supported by neighbouring Rwanda. The violence has claimed millions of lives and displaced countless civilians.
The agreement has provisions on territorial integrity, prohibition of hostilities and the disengagement, disarmament and conditional integration of non-state armed groups.
Although the peace deal is seen as a diplomatic milestone, experts remain cautious. A prominent rebel group has said the agreement does not apply to it, raising concerns about its immediate impact on the ground.
Asked in the Oval Office about violations of the agreement, Trump said he didn't think that would happen but also warned of 'very severe penalties, financial and otherwise' if it did.
Some Congolese see the agreement as an opportunity by the US to acquire critical minerals needed for technology after their government reached out to Trump for support in fighting the rebels.
Trump has prioritized securing critical minerals amid growing competition with China for economic and strategic influence across Africa.
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