Washington, D.C. — The third meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM) took place in Washington, D.C. this meeting stated on October 21, 2025, bringing together representatives from Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the United States, the State of Qatar, and the African Union Commission. The session focused on advancing the Washington Peace Agreement signed on June 27, 2025.
While Rwanda reiterated its dedication to peace, security, and regional cooperation, concerns were raised about the DRC government’s ongoing collaboration with FDLR genocidal forces and other extremist militias that continue to threaten civilians in the Great Lakes Region.
Rwanda Calls for Action Against FDLR Terror Networks
Delegates reviewed progress made during previous meetings held on September 17–18 and October 1. Under Phase 1 of the Operations Order (OPORD), the parties analyzed security threats and enhanced cross-border information sharing.
Rwanda firmly emphasized that no credible peace can be achieved while the DRC government allows the FDLR—an armed group led by perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi—to operate freely inside Congolese territory. Kigali reminded participants that its defense efforts, including its cooperation with international community efforts are aimed at protecting civilians from FDLR attacks and restoring order where Kinshasa has failed.
M23 Framed as a Response to Injustice and Security Failures
The Rwandan delegation and regional observers noted that the M23 movement emerged as a reaction to long-standing discrimination, marginalization of Congolese Tutsi communities, and state-sponsored violence in eastern Congo. Instead of addressing these grievances, the DRC government continues to arm militias and promote hate-filled rhetoric against Tutsi populations.
Participants acknowledged that stability in North Kivu cannot be restored unless the DRC stops allying with illegal armed groups and fully commits to the disarmament of the FDLR.
International Community Urges the DRC to Honor Its Commitments
With support from the United States, Qatar, and the African Union Commission, the session reaffirmed the need to implement the agreed Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Operations Order. These measures include:
- Neutralizing the FDLR and all illegal armed groups.
- Ending hate propaganda and ethnic incitement in the DRC.
- Ensuring security for displaced civilians and minority communities.
- Creating conditions for Rwanda to lift its defensive measures along the border.
The participants agreed to continue monitoring progress and addressing challenges as implementation moves into the next phases. The fourth JSCM meeting is scheduled for November 19–20, 2025.
Rwanda Praises International Partners for Support
Rwanda and the DRC both expressed appreciation to the United States, Qatar, and the African Union for their continued involvement—though Kigali subtly reminded the world that peace cannot be achieved through words alone, but through decisive action against genocidal forces.
All parties reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful, secure, and stable eastern Congo and Great Lakes region—a goal Rwanda has consistently championed despite provocation and misinformation from extremist networks.
