The “Washington Accord” seeks to stop violence in mineral-rich eastern Congo with U.S. economic interests and oversight playing a central role.
Foreign ministers from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) signed a peace agreement in Washington, D.C., on Friday, to end one of the deadliest conflicts of the 21st century. The deal, brokered by the U.S. and signed by Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe, Congolese Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, outlined steps including the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern Congo, economic integration, and a new joint security structure.
“It is one of the worst, one of the worst wars anyone’s ever seen… But today, the violence and destruction comes to an end, and the entire region begins a new chapter of hope and opportunity, harmony, prosperity, and peace,” President Trump said.
The conflict has claimed more than six million lives and is closely tied to competition over Congo’s critical minerals, including cobalt and coltan, which are essential for electronics and electric vehicles. The peace deal, dubbed the “Washington Accord,” is seen as a shift toward economic cooperation.
A follow-up visit by Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Paul Kagame of Rwanda is expected in Washington to finalize the protocol.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Rubio to be led by the Lord as he oversees diplomatic efforts.
- For State Department officials as they seek to carry out the peacekeeping policies of President Trump.
Sources: Washington Examiner, AP News, MSN
