Rwanda, DRC initial Regional Economic Integration Framework

Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have initialed the full text of the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF). The REIF outlines key areas for enhancing economic cooperation and development between the two countries, demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace and creating opportunities for investment and growth that directly benefit people across the region. The agreement was signed on November 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C., during the fourth meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee which was convened to assess the implementation of the Peace Agreement signed on Ju

Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have initialed the full text of the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF). The REIF outlines key areas for enhancing economic cooperation and development between the two countries, demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace and creating opportunities for investment and growth that directly benefit people across the region. The agreement was signed on November 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C., during the fourth meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee which was convened to assess the implementation of the Peace Agreement signed on June 27, 2025, also in Washington, D.C. A joint statement released by the U.S. Department of State noted that the meeting was attended by representatives from the United States, Qatar, Togo, and the African Union. ALSO READ: Rwanda, DRC sign historic peace agreement According to the United States, during the meeting and marking a significant step forward representatives from the DRC and Rwanda initialed the full text of the REIF, under the oversight of Under Secretary Hooker and Senior Advisor Boulos. “The REIF outlines key areas for fostering economic cooperation and development between the two nations, demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace and creating opportunities for investment and growth that directly benefit people in the region,” the joint statement read. The agreement had originally been scheduled for signing on October 3, 2025, but was postponed following reports that President Félix Tshisekedi instructed the Congolese delegation not to proceed at that time. The joint statement further emphasized that implementation remains contingent upon the satisfactory execution of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Operational Order (OPORD) under the Peace Agreement, underscoring the critical link between peace, stability, and economic progress. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to refrain from hostile actions or rhetoric, particularly political attacks or statements that could undermine or complicate the full implementation of the Peace Agreement, including in international fora. During the fourth joint meeting, the State of Qatar, which is mediating between the AFC/M23 movement and the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, informed participants that the first meeting of the Doha Ceasefire Monitoring Mechanism had recently taken place on November 5.