Doha: An agreement signed by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) has been hailed by the UN peacekeeping mission in the country (MONUSCO) as an important step towards sustainable peace. In a statement released on 19 July, MONUSCO said that the Declaration of Principles, signed in Doha under the mediation of Qatar, reflects the parties' resolve to prioritize peaceful means, establish a ceasefire, and set up a joint mechanism to define its practical implementation.

According to EMM, this important declaration marks a shift towards easing tensions and protecting civilians seriously affected by the conflict, declared Mr. Bruno Lemarquis, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC and Acting Head of MONUSCO. We commend the commitments made and call for their timely and good-faith implementation.

The Mission's statement highlighted the Declaration's emphasis on civilian protection and support for the ceasefire, with assistance from MONUSCO and other partners, and reaffirmed its readiness to support the cessation of hostilities, particularly through the establishment of a credible and jointly agreed verification mechanism.

MONUSCO's statement concluded by urging all parties to honor their commitments, act in good faith throughout the process, and prioritize human rights, security, and the aspirations of the Congolese people in all decisions.

A pathway towards lasting peace: UN chief

On Sunday, Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the signature of the Declaration of Principles, in a statement released by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric. Mr. Guterres stated that the Declaration opens a pathway towards lasting peace, security, and the return of displaced persons and refugees, and urged all parties to ensure the swift implementation of the commitments undertaken.

The UN chief expressed his appreciation to the State of Qatar for its facilitation of this process and reiterated the United Nations' commitment to supporting efforts toward peace, protection of civilians, and stability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in close collaboration with national authorities, regional and international partners.