DR Congo gov't, M23 rebel group sign declaration of principles to end conflict

DOHA - The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) signed a declaration of principles with the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group here on Saturday to end the conflict in the country's eastern region.

After months of negotiations mediated by Qatar, the declaration lays out a framework of core principles agreed upon by both parties and sets the foundation for continued talks aimed at achieving a comprehensive peace deal.

"The agreement outlines the key principles both parties have committed to," said Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, Qatari minister of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at the signing ceremony.

Qatar remains committed to pushing forward negotiations following the declaration in efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement that brings peace, development and stability to the DRC people, said the minister.

Security conditions in the eastern DRC have deteriorated since January, amid a resurgence of fighting involving M23 rebels.

The group has taken control of several key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, displacing hundreds of thousands of people and worsening an already dire humanitarian emergency.