Doha: An agreement signed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government 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 toward sustainable peace.
According to African Press Organization, 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.
Mr. Bruno Lemarquis, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC and Acting Head of MONUSCO, declared that this important declaration marks a shift toward easing tensions and protecting civilians seriously affected by the conflict. He commended the commitments made and called 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 honour their commitments, act in good faith throughout the process, and prioritize human rights, security, and the aspirations of the Congolese people in all decisions.