The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have failed to sign a crucial economic framework agreement, casting uncertainty over a peace deal brokered by the United States.
Despite finalizing the text of the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF), Congo refused to sign due to Rwanda’s continued military presence in eastern Congo. According to sources, Congo will not sign the framework until 90% of Rwandan troops withdraw.
The peace agreement, signed in June, aimed to end hostilities between the two countries and attract Western investment to the region’s rich mineral resources.
Rwanda has denied supporting the M23 rebels, but analysts and diplomats estimate that at least 7,000 Rwandan soldiers have crossed into Congo to support the rebels.
US officials are working to revive the stalled talks, with Trump’s senior advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, hoping to finalize the economic framework and other agreements during a visit to Washington by October 23.
The Rwandan government expressed disappointment but remains committed to the peace process and US mediation.
The failed signing has significant implications for the region, which is rich in tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper, and lithium. The US had hoped to lure billions of dollars in Western investment to the region through this deal. Despite the setback, both countries remain open to further negotiations.
