Congo’s Interests Came First in Doha Peace Deal, Says Minister Shabani

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reaffirmed that its people and its sovereignty remain the top priority in peace talks with Rwanda. On Saturday, July 19, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani declared that the Doha peace declaration signed with Rwanda fully protects Congo’s national interests.

Speaking on Radio Okapi from Doha, Qatar, where the agreement was signed, Minister Shabani said the DRC delegation worked hard to place the suffering and safety of citizens living under occupation at the center of negotiations.

A Peace Document That Respects Congo’s Sovereignty

Minister Shabani explained that the text of the agreement clearly addresses issues such as national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the restoration of state authority across eastern Congo. These points were non-negotiable for Kinshasa and are now officially included in the declaration.

The document, signed on July 20 by Congo and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, sets the stage for a full peace agreement. But before that, both parties have agreed to a 10-day pause, after which talks will resume in Doha to draft a complete, lasting deal.

From different corners of the world, voices have supported Congo’s commitment to peace. In Belgium, Foreign Minister Maxime Prévôt welcomed the deal as a turning point. He praised Qatar’s role, especially its Foreign Minister, for helping to move the process forward. Prévôt also encouraged both sides to honor their commitments in good faith.

From Washington, Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa, described the declaration as a “necessary step” toward ending the crisis. He underlined the importance of dialogue, the safe return of displaced people, and the need for accountability from all sides involved. He also called for stronger, inclusive governance and the full return of state control in all affected areas.

Minister Shabani used his Radio Okapi interview to send a message of hope and resilience to people living in the conflict zones.

He reminded them that they had not been forgotten and that their suffering was the driving force behind the DRC's firm stand during negotiations. He said the government remains committed to restoring peace, dignity, and normal life to all provinces under rebel control.

African Union Welcomes the Progress

The African Union Commission also praised the agreement, calling it a “major step” toward peace and stability in both eastern Congo and the wider Great Lakes region.

AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf issued a statement congratulating the parties for choosing dialogue over war. He urged them to stay focused and work toward a comprehensive agreement that ends the conflict for good.

The DRC government has made its position clear: the interests of the Congolese people come first. With the Doha peace declaration now signed, the real work begins: building trust, drafting a lasting agreement, and returning dignity to those who’ve suffered the most.

The next phase of talks could shape the future of Congo. And this time, Kinshasa is walking into negotiations not from a place of weakness, but with unity, dignity, and determination.