Historic Declaration of Principles Signed for Peace in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Washington, D.C. — April 25, 2025: A significant step towards fostering peace and stability in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was marked today with the signing of the Declaration of Principles by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with foreign ministers from Rwanda and the DRC during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. This momentous agreement aims to establish a foundational framework for governance, security, and economic collaboration in the region, which has faced decades of conflict.

In his opening remarks, Secretary Rubio expressed his honor in participating in the ceremony alongside his counterparts, stating, “It’s a declaration that establishes a fundamental understanding of regional governance, security, economic frameworks, and to end the fighting and allow the region to reach its full potential.” He acknowledged the complexities ahead, emphasizing that achieving durable peace and economic development will take time and commitment.

“The eastern part of the Democratic Republic has seen 30 years of conflict. Durable peace and long-lasting economic development is not going to be easy, but it is important,” said Rubio. He noted that the presence of both foreign ministers at the event signifies a commitment to engage in vital conversations to find resolutions.

Rubio highlighted the significance of this declaration in facilitating U.S. investment in the region, remarking, “A durable peace in the Great Lakes region will open the door for greater U.S. and broader Western investment, which will bring about economic opportunities and prosperity.” He reinforced the United States’ commitment to supporting the DRC and its neighbors through engagement in constructive dialogues.

The ceremony also featured remarks from Foreign Minister Wagner of the DRC, who underscored the urgency of the initiative: “Today marks not an end but a beginning, a necessary step towards peace taken with resolve and purpose.” Wagner articulated the challenges faced in the DRC, particularly regarding displacement and insecurity, stating, “For us, the urgency of this initiative is not theoretical; it is human.”

She stressed the importance of establishing a sequence of accountability and responsibility in the peace process, asserting, “Peace and development cannot rely only on good intentions. They must be built on responsibility, clear commitments, measurable timelines, and consequences for noncompliance.” Her sentiments were echoed as she affirmed that the Declaration of Principles marks a renewed hope for lasting peace and regional cooperation.

Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe of Rwanda shared his perspectives on the collaborative effort, thanking the U.S. for its role in reshaping the dialogue around peace in the region. “Today we are talking about the real issues, the root causes that must be addressed to achieve a lasting peace in our region,” he pointed out. Nduhungirehe highlighted security and refugee return as primary concerns, asserting, “Our goal is a secure region – free of violent ethnic extremism – which is well-governed.”

The signing is seen as an essential step towards opening pathways for new economic opportunities, linking the DRC and Rwanda with U.S. private sector investments. According to Nduhungirehe, “The Declaration of Principles opens the door to a definitive peace agreement, giving fresh impetus to ongoing efforts of the Africa-led process.”

The ceremony culminated with the signing of the Declaration of Principles, witnessed by Secretary Rubio, who expressed gratitude to all parties involved. “This declaration commits the parties to mutual recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity, addressing security concerns, promoting regional economic integration, facilitating the return of displaced persons, supporting MONUSCO, and drafting a peace agreement,” Rubio stated, reflecting on the importance of these commitments.

As the event concluded with applause, the hope for a peaceful and prosperous future in the eastern DRC was palpable. This agreement not only strengthens regional ties but also signals a commitment from the U.S. to actively participate in bringing lasting stability to a region that has endured far too much suffering.

In summary, the Declaration of Principles represents a collective resolve from the U.S., Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to take concrete steps towards peace, accountability, and prosperity, creating a hopeful pathway for future generations.