Officials at the signing of the agreement on the mechanism for the release of detainees linked to the conflict between DR Congo and AFC/M23 rebels on Monday, September 15. Courtesy
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has officially received a signed copy of the framework for releasing detainees linked to the conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo and AFC/M23 rebels, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Monday, September 15.
The prisoner release framework was first disclosed on September 12 by Masad Boulos, senior advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, who called it a “pivotal step” toward reducing hostilities and restoring peace in eastern DR Congo.
The ICRC received the agreement in Doha, in the presence of Qatari officials serving as mediators, along with representatives from Kinshasa and the rebels.
The agreement authorizes the ICRC to serve as a neutral intermediary to identify, verify, and oversee the secure release of detainees held by both sides.
According to the statement, the framework represents “a significant milestone toward strengthening opportunities for lasting peace in eastern Congo.”
Doha Talks Revive Peace Efforts
The deal follows a series of high-level negotiations in Doha aimed at reviving the peace process after months of renewed clashes in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The parties had gathered to review the implementation of the Doha Principles Agreement signed on July 19.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that the prisoner exchange deal reflects “the culmination of successful talks” and builds on earlier humanitarian initiatives. Last year, the ICRC facilitated the transfer of more than 1,300 disarmed combatants and their families from Goma to Kinshasa between April and May.
Rebels Push for Confidence-Building Measures
After both sides missed the August 18 deadline to sign a peace agreement, the rebels insisted that Kinshasa release detainees as a confidence-building measure and as one of the conditions for returning to the negotiating table in Doha.
Source:The New Times
