Security Council Welcomes Progress in Doha Talks and Peace Agreements
The United Nations Security Council has welcomed significant progress in the Doha talks facilitated by Qatar, following consultations in Doha to address the issue of the M23 [23 March Movement] and the signature of a Declaration of Principles in Doha on 19 July. The Council also commended the peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda in Washington, D.C., on 27 June. However, they stressed the need for the signatories to uphold their commitment to a permanent ceasefire and to work towards the finalization of a comprehensive peace agreement by the agreed timeline.
Key Takeaways:
- The Security Council welcomed the progress in the Doha talks facilitated by Qatar, resulting in the signature of a Declaration of Principles in Doha on 19 July.
- The Council commended the peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda in Washington, D.C., on 27 June.
- The signatories of the Declaration of Principles were called upon to uphold their commitment to a permanent ceasefire and to stay engaged towards the finalization of a comprehensive peace agreement by the agreed timeline.
- The Security Council expressed determination to actively support efforts for the conclusion of a comprehensive peace agreement and ceasefire implementation, with the support of MONUSCO and regional mechanisms.
- The Council condemned attacks against peacekeepers and paid tribute to all peacekeepers who risk their lives.
- The members of the Security Council renewed their deep appreciation to Qatar for its mediation role and to all other actors involved in facilitation efforts.
- The Council reaffirmed their strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and called on all parties to honour their obligations and commitments for lasting peace in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region.
Statistics:
- The Doha talks resulted in the signature of a Declaration of Principles on 19 July.
Sources:
- United Nations General Assembly and Security Council The Security Council press statement was issued by Council President Asim Iftikhar Ahmad (Pakistan).
- Qatar - for its mediation role in the Doha talks.
- African Union, subregional organizations, and the United States - for their facilitation efforts.
- MONUSCO - for its support in ceasefire implementation and peacekeeping efforts.
- Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda - for their commitment to a comprehensive peace agreement.