The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has welcomed the signing of the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the AFC/M23, describing it as a landmark step toward ending persistent conflict in eastern Congo.
In a statement on November 15, 2025, the AU Commission said the agreement represents significant progress in restoring stability, rebuilding trust, and addressing long-standing drivers of violence in the region.
The Chairperson praised both parties for demonstrating political will and commitment to dialogue, which he noted was crucial to the breakthrough.
The AU also acknowledged the role of international partners who supported the peace process. The Chairperson expressed deep appreciation to the State of Qatar for its constructive facilitation and steadfast backing throughout the negotiations.
He further commended the contribution of the United States, which accompanied the efforts leading to the framework’s conclusion.
The statement highlighted the importance of African-led diplomacy, noting the prominent role played by Togo’s President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, the AU-designated mediator for the conflict in eastern DRC.
The AU also recognised the work of the Panel of Five AU Facilitators, who have been central to guiding and supporting the peace talks.
The AU urged all stakeholders to commit fully to the agreement, stressing that its success will depend on timely and faithful implementation.
This includes concluding the six follow-on protocols that form part of the broader peace roadmap.
According to the Commission, adherence to the framework is essential to consolidating gains and preventing a resurgence of conflict.
Reaffirming its long-term commitment, the AU said it will continue to support both the Doha Process and the Washington track, which together aim to establish sustainable peace and stability in the DRC.
The Chairperson emphasized that the AU remains dedicated to backing all initiatives promoting peace, security, reconciliation and development across the Great Lakes region.
The AU Commission called on regional and international partners to stand with the DRC during the implementation phase, reiterating that collective action remains vital in securing a durable solution to one of Africa’s most protracted conflicts.
The new framework addresses humanitarian access, the return of displaced people and protection of the judiciary, Boulous is quoted as saying by the AFP agency.
It builds on a declaration of principles signed by the two sides in Doha in July, as well as a deal made in the same city last month on the monitoring of an eventual ceasefire.
