Saudi Arabia Welcomes US-Brokered Peace Deal Between Rwanda and DR Congo

RIYADH||June 29: Saudi Arabia has welcomed the signing of a peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), a deal brokered by the United States with key support from Qatar, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed hope that the agreement would fulfill “the hopes and aspirations of the two peoples for development and prosperity” and contribute positively to “regional and international security and peace.”

The ministry also commended the diplomatic efforts of both the United States and Qatar, acknowledging their “constructive role” in facilitating the peace process.

Finalized on Friday, the agreement seeks to de-escalate long-standing tensions between Rwanda and the DR Congo, which have worsened recently due to mutual accusations of supporting armed rebel groups operating along their shared border.

Among the most contentious issues is the M23 militia, which the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of backing—a claim that Kigali has consistently denied.

The mediation efforts gained momentum amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation in eastern DR Congo, where ongoing conflict has displaced more than seven million people.

The peace deal is considered a significant step toward stability in the Great Lakes region, with both nations agreeing to ease hostilities and commit to renewed dialogue under international oversight.