President Paul Kagame has reaffirmed Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to the newly signed peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), describing it as a decisive opportunity to secure lasting stability in the Great Lakes Region. Speaking at the signing ceremony in Washington, D.C., Kagame expressed deep appreciation to international partners who supported the negotiations and stressed that Rwanda will fully honor every obligation contained in the accord.
The agreement, signed in the presence of regional and international leaders, establishes a comprehensive framework aimed at resolving decades of insecurity, mistrust, and armed conflict between the two neighboring countries. It focuses on restoring mutual respect for sovereignty, dismantling armed groups, coordinating security efforts, facilitating humanitarian support, enabling refugee repatriation, and expanding economic cooperation.
President Kagame noted that the success of the agreement reflects a shared belief among global and regional actors that peace in the Great Lakes Region is achievable when political will and accountability align. He emphasized that Rwanda approached the process with seriousness, clarity, and a long-term vision centered on stability and development.
During his address, Kagame singled out former United States President Donald Trump for his role in advancing the peace process, crediting him with bringing renewed momentum to negotiations that had stalled for years. He explained that Trump’s involvement was neither symbolic nor self-serving, but rooted in a clear understanding of the region’s security challenges and economic potential.
“No one asked President Trump to take on this responsibility,” Kagame said. “Our region is rarely at the center of global attention, yet when he saw an opportunity to contribute to peace, he took it. For over three decades, many efforts were made to address these conflicts, but none succeeded in tackling the root causes.”
The United States formally entered the process in April, when Trump’s envoy for African affairs, Massad Boulos, visited Kigali and Kinshasa to reengage both sides. Kagame explained that this intervention introduced a results-driven approach that emphasized accountability, timelines, and shared benefits rather than blame.
According to Kagame, the American mediation was guided by a balanced perspective that avoided favoritism and instead promoted a common vision built on peace, regional prosperity, and investment, including opportunities for American investors. This approach, he said, helped both Rwanda and DRC focus on practical outcomes rather than historical grievances.
Despite praising international support, President Kagame was clear that the responsibility for implementing the agreement ultimately lies with Rwanda and the DRC themselves. He cautioned that external partners can facilitate dialogue, but sustainable peace depends on the actions of the countries directly involved.
“If this agreement fails, the blame will not rest with President Trump or any external actor,” Kagame stated. “It will be on us. Africans must take responsibility for building cooperation and ensuring security in our region.”
Kagame reiterated that Rwanda has always prioritized stability after enduring immense national challenges and will not compromise on that principle. He stressed that Rwanda’s commitment to the agreement is rooted in its determination to prevent any return to insecurity and protect its citizens.
The Washington peace agreement outlines several key commitments designed to address long-standing security threats and foster cooperation. Central among these is the joint dismantling of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and other affiliated armed groups operating in eastern DRC. These militias have been identified as a persistent source of instability and a direct threat to Rwanda’s national security.
Under the framework aligned with the 2024 Luanda CONOPS security plan, the agreement establishes a clear timeline for action. The DRC has committed to neutralizing the FDLR within 90 days, followed by a 30-day stabilization period aimed at restoring order and state authority in affected areas. Rwanda, in turn, has pledged to lift defensive measures it previously put in place once security conditions allow.
The accord also commits both countries to resolving disputes through dialogue rather than military confrontation, rejecting any form of aggression or support for armed groups. This provision is intended to rebuild trust and prevent cycles of accusation and retaliation that have undermined previous peace efforts.
Economic cooperation is another cornerstone of the agreement. Rwanda and the DRC have committed to expanding cross-border trade, developing joint infrastructure projects, and promoting investment in energy, natural resources, and logistics. These initiatives are expected to create shared economic incentives that reinforce peace and improve livelihoods on both sides of the border.
Humanitarian considerations also feature prominently. The agreement includes commitments to support displaced populations, facilitate the safe and voluntary return of refugees, and improve access to essential services in conflict-affected communities. Regional and international partners are expected to support these efforts through coordinated assistance.
The signing ceremony was attended by several African heads of state, including the Presidents of Angola, Kenya, and Burundi, as well as senior representatives from the African Union and the East African Community. Their presence underscored the regional importance of the agreement and the broader hope that it will contribute to stability across Central and East Africa.
President Kagame concluded his remarks by describing the agreement as a turning point for Rwanda, the DRC, and the wider region. He emphasized that peace is not an abstract ideal but a responsibility that must be defended through action, discipline, and cooperation.
With strong political will and genuine implementation, Kagame said, the Washington agreement has the potential to finally close a painful chapter of conflict and open a new era defined by security, development, and regional integration. The coming months, he added, will be critical in transforming commitments on paper into tangible change on the ground.
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