Representatives from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have drafted an economic cooperation agreement marking a key step toward strengthening ties between the two countries.
The move was announced in a joint Statement after the Fourth Joint Oversight Committee for the Peace Agreement held this week in Washington, DC.
The agreement, dubbed the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF), was overseen by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker and Senior Advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos.
Also present were representatives from the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (as the African Union mediator), and the African Union Commission.
"The REIF outlines key areas for fostering economic cooperation and development between the two nations, demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace and creating opportunities for investment and growth that directly benefit people in the region," the two states said in the joint statement released a few hours ago.
The implementation of the agreement, however, remains hinged upon the satisfactory execution of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Operational Order (OPORD) under the Peace Agreement, underscoring the critical link between peace, stability, and economic progress.
In September, the two states agreed to develop a phased approach to implementing the CONOPS for the neutralisation of the FDLR and its associated groups, and disengagement of forces/lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda.
They also negotiated an operational order to advance the same beginning last month.
The Committee, however, recognised lagging progress and committed to redoubling efforts to implement the Washington Peace Agreement.
"The Parties agreed on specific near-term actions in line with their respective obligations for neutralizing the FDLR armed group and its associated groups and advancing disengagement of forces/lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda, reviewed preparations for military operations in a named area of interest, adopted an implementing agreement, and acknowledged the efforts of both of the Parties to translate their obligations into tangible actions on the ground," the statement added.
Meanwhile, Rwanda and DRC reaffirmed their commitment to refrain from hostile actions or rhetoric, particularly political attacks or language that would undermine or complicate the full implementation of the Peace Agreement.
"The Parties expressed a shared commitment to maintaining momentum in the peace process and continuing to build on the progress achieved," the statement added.
