Sunday April 27, 2025

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia has welcomed the Declaration of Principles signed between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, calling it a significant milestone toward regional peace, stability, and enhanced cooperation in the Great Lakes region.

In a statement issued Sunday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised both nations for their commitment to dialogue and diplomacy and commended the United States for its role in facilitating the agreement.

“Somalia commends both nations for their unwavering commitment to dialogue and diplomacy, and appreciates the pivotal role played by the United States in mediating these discussions. We firmly believe that sustained peace and stability in the DRC and Rwanda will positively influence regional security, economic development, and the well-being of millions across the Great Lakes.”

The Somali government reiterated its support for the principles of international law and the foundational frameworks of the African Union, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty, peaceful dispute resolution, and mutual respect among nations.

“We emphasize that a coordinated, approach grounded in regional commitments is vital for achieving durable peace and sustainable development in the DRC and the broader Great Lakes region,” the ministry added.

The Declaration of Principles, signed Friday in the presence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, commits the DRC and Rwanda to draft a comprehensive peace agreement by May 2. The two sides pledged to respect each other’s sovereignty and to halt any military support for armed groups, although the agreement did not explicitly name the M23 rebel group.

The US and the United Nations experts say M23 is backed by Rwanda, which has repeatedly denied the charge, saying it is defending its security against hostile militias operating in DRC, including remnants of the Hutu-led group behind the 1994 genocide.