The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda announced they have reached an economic agreement in Washington, as U.S. President Donald Trump pushes to advance a regional peace deal and attract Western investment to the area. n nTechnical teams from both nations initialed the Regional Economic Integration Framework on Friday. n nAccording to a statement from the U.S. Department of State following a joint oversight committee meeting, the framework outlines key areas for enhancing economic cooperation and development between the two countries. n nThe heads of state are expected to formally sign the agreement during a visit to the White House, though no date has been confirmed. An initial meeting was tentatively scheduled for November 13, but sources indicate the timing remains unconfirmed. n nImplementation of the framework depends on tangible progress on a prior peace accord, including the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from eastern DRC and joint operations to neutralize the threat posed by the armed group Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), based in Congolese territory. n nLast month, the expected economic deal was not finalized, marking a setback for Trump’s mediation efforts and plans to channel billions in Western investment into a region rich in tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper, lithium, and other minerals. n nIn June, the foreign ministers of Congo and Rwanda signed a peace agreement in Washington, committing to implement a 2024 accord under which Rwanda would end its defensive military operations in eastern Congo within 90 days. Congolese military operations targeting the FDLR were also meant to conclude within the same timeframe. n nThe FDLR consists of remnants of the former Rwandan army and militias responsible for the 1994 genocide. Friday’s statement acknowledged delays in progress and pledged renewed efforts to implement the Washington peace agreement. It also noted that both sides agreed on specific near-term actions related to military activity. n
— news from alarabiya
