The declaration of principles signed in Doha between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group has been broadly welcomed as a step toward ending the long-running conflict in the eastern DRC. The document, brokered by Qatar after months of discreet mediation, outlines a series of agreed-upon principles to guide further talks. While not a final peace deal, the declaration marks a key step toward a comprehensive agreement, Xinhua news agency reported. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, Qatari minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the declaration reflects the parties' commitment to a peaceful settlement. He said Qatar remains committed to supporting the process to bring peace, development, and stability to the DRC people. According to the document, both sides have agreed to resolve disputes through dialogue and negotiation, within the existing peace framework endorsed by the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the African Union (AU). The declaration outlines a commitment to a permanent ceasefire and prohibits any attempt to seize new positions by force. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairperson of the AU Commission, welcomed the signing of the declaration as "a major milestone" in the ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace, security, and stability in the eastern DRC and the wider Great Lakes region. He acknowledged the invaluable contributions of all stakeholders, including regional facilitators from the EAC and the SADC. (IANS)
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