DRC and Rwanda Agree to Concrete Steps to Advance Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity

WASHINGTON D.C. – Representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda concluded a two-day meeting in Washington, D.C., on March 18, 2026, agreeing to specific and concrete measures to further implement the Washington Peace Agreement under the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity.

The meeting, held from March 17-18, resulted in a joint statement released by the Governments of the United States, the DRC, and Rwanda, outlining coordinated steps designed to de-escalate tensions and advance peace on the ground.

Key agreements reached between the DRC and Rwanda include:

• A mutual commitment to specific measures that support each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• The scheduled disengagement of forces and the lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda in defined areas within DRC territory.
• A commitment to time-bound and intensified efforts by the DRC to neutralize the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda).
• A pledge for the protection of all civilians.

Both nations reaffirmed their commitment under the Washington Accords to achieving lasting peace and prosperity in the Great Lakes region. The joint statement highlights a concerted effort, facilitated by the United States, to stabilize a historically volatile area and move towards a resolution of long-standing tensions.