Congo and M23 Take Historic Step Towards Peace in Doha, But Road to Stability Remains Long

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A significant breakthrough in the long-standing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo was achieved on Saturday, as the government and M23 rebel group signed a framework agreement in Doha, Qatar. The agreement marks a crucial step towards ending the fighting that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of people this year. The framework, which includes eight protocols, was hailed by US and Qatari officials as an important step towards peace, but both sides acknowledged that much work remains to be done. The agreement needs to be implemented, and several key issues, including the exchange of prisoners and monitoring of a ceasefire, are still pending. The M23 rebel group, backed by neighboring Rwanda, has been a major factor in the conflict, seizing key territories in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. However, Rwanda has consistently denied allegations of supporting the M23. While the agreement is a positive development, experts warn that the road to stability is long and challenging. Tibor Nagy, a former US envoy to Africa, said that the conflict requires extensive diplomatic efforts and a genuine commitment from all parties involved. "This is not a light switch that can be turned on and off," he said. The conflict in eastern Congo continues to worsen, with violence persisting despite diplomatic efforts. Local officials reported that at least 28 people were killed by Islamic State-allied Ugandan militants in North Kivu on Friday. Qatar has hosted several rounds of direct talks between the Congo government and M23, but the talks have largely focused on preconditions and confidence-building measures. The latest agreement sets the stage for further negotiations, but it remains to be seen whether the parties can build on this momentum and achieve lasting peace. Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, said that peace cannot be enforced by force, but rather through confidence, mutual respect, and sincere commitment. The international community will be watching closely to see if the parties can translate this agreement into concrete actions and bring an end to the conflict in eastern Congo.