Representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and the Republic of Rwanda concluded the fourth meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM), this week in Washington, D.C., marking another step forward in implementing the Washington Peace Agreement signed earlier this year.
The gathering — attended by delegations from the United States, Qatar, Togo (in its role as African Union mediator), and the African Union Commission — focused on accelerating joint efforts to neutralize the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), and advance broader regional peace initiatives.
According to a joint statement issued after the talks and sent to Fishe News, both the DRC and Rwanda reaffirmed their commitment to executing the Operations Order (OPORD), tied to the Concept of Operations (CONOPS), for the Harmonized Plan. The plan aims at neutralizing the FDLR while supporting disengagement steps that would allow Rwanda to lift defensive measures along its border.
Participants reviewed progress under Phase One of the OPORD, including intelligence-sharing updates and information campaigns aimed at persuading FDLR fighters to disarm. Observers noted ongoing demobilisation and repatriation efforts, and encouraged both parties to address remaining gaps as they look ahead to Phase Two — which involves active measures to dismantle FDLR structures and reduce cross-border tensions.
In addition to security coordination, discussions also touched on recent political momentum. Delegates welcomed the signing of The Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the DRC government and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/M23, praising Qatar’s diplomatic leadership. JSCM members underscored the importance of aligning the Doha and Washington tracks to ensure a coherent peace strategy.
The statement further highlighted plans for a High-Level Meeting on January 17, 2026, to be hosted by Togo, aimed at consolidating regional peacebuilding efforts across the Great Lakes region.
The parties also extended thanks to President Donald Trump for what they described as an “indispensable role” throughout the process.
All participants reiterated their commitment to securing lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC and the wider Great Lakes region.