A long-awaited breakthrough has emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where the government and the M23 rebel movement signed a Declaration of Principles in Doha, Qatar, committing to a permanent ceasefire, protection of civilians, and respect for national sovereignty.

The accord, hailed by the United Nations and the African Union as a “significant step,” follows months of mediation and builds on the Washington Agreement signed between Kinshasa and Kigali on June 27.

In Goma, the capital of North Kivu province under M23 control since January, the announcement sparked cautious optimism. “We want peace. We want real results from these negotiations, not just talks today followed by fighting tomorrow,” said local resident Adèle Faida.

The agreement bans military attacks, aerial bombardments, and territorial advances, and calls for the safe and dignified return of displaced persons, inclusive dialogue, and restoration of state authority across eastern Congo.

The M23, composed largely of ethnic Tutsi fighters, has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda, which denies involvement. The group seized vast territory in a January offensive, including Goma and Bukavu, displacing hundreds of thousands.

The Doha declaration aligns with Congo’s “red lines,” including the non-negotiable withdrawal of M23 from occupied areas, according to government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya.

Negotiations for a comprehensive peace agreement are scheduled to begin by August 8, with a final accord expected by August 18, monitored by a joint verification mechanism supported by MONUSCO and international partners.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry emphasized its role as a neutral facilitator, while U.S. officials praised the deal as a foundation for lasting peace and regional stability, and a potential catalyst for Western investment in Congo’s mineral-rich territories.

Civil society leaders, including Grâce Omar, welcomed the accord but stressed the need to address deeper political grievances and ensure accountability. “This is a step forward, but the broader crisis must also be resolved,” he said.

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