On December 4, President Donald J. Trump hosted the signing of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. The agreement aims to end long-standing conflict, promote economic cooperation, and establish a basis for lasting peace in the Great Lakes region.
The Washington Accords reinforce previous commitments made in a Peace Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda that was reached in Washington, D.C., on June 27, 2025. The parties also agreed to implement the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF), which sets out plans for peace, security, and economic growth in the area.
The REIF is intended to unlock economic opportunities within the Great Lakes region and create openings for U.S. private sector involvement.
President Felix Tshisekedi signed on behalf of the DRC government while President Paul Kagame represented Rwanda. The ceremony was attended by several African leaders and officials including Togolese President of the Council of Ministers Faure Gnassingbé, Angolan President João Lourenço, Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, Kenyan President William Ruto, African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo, Qatari Minister of State Dr. Mohammed Al Khulaifi, and Emirati Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan.
Alongside the Washington Accords, other agreements were signed under Secretary Rubio’s hosting:
- Strategic Partnership Agreement between the United States and Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of the United States and Government of Democratic Republic of the Congo Concerning an Expanded Security Partnership
- U.S.-Rwanda Framework for Shared Economic Prosperity
"The Washington Accords and the initiatives affirmed today represent an internationally shared commitment to transforming the Great Lakes region into a model of peace, stability, and economic opportunity. By addressing the root causes of conflict, fostering trust, and advancing economic cooperation, the DRC and Rwanda are taking bold steps to create a brighter future for their citizens."
"The United States remains steadfast in its support for these efforts, recognizing the immense economic potential of the Great Lakes region will only be realized through the full implementation of peace and security commitments."
