Rwanda, DRC renew commitment to joint plan targeting FDLR

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda have reaffirmed their commitment to move forward with a key security plan designed to neutralize the genocidal militia FDLR. The renewed pledge was made during the fourth meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM), held in Washington, D.C. on November 19–20, 2025, with participation from the United States, Qatar, Togo as the African Union mediator, and the African Union Commission. In their joint statement, the two governments said they remained committed to “advancing the Operations Order (OPORD) to imple

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda have reaffirmed their commitment to move forward with a key security plan designed to neutralize the genocidal militia FDLR. The renewed pledge was made during the fourth meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM), held in Washington, D.C. on November 19–20, 2025, with participation from the United States, Qatar, Togo as the African Union mediator, and the African Union Commission. In their joint statement, the two governments said they remained committed to “advancing the Operations Order (OPORD) to implement the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for the Harmonized Plan for the Neutralization of the FDLR and Disengagement of Forces/Lifting of Defensive Measures by Rwanda.” Observers at the meeting noted the continuing efforts to support the demobilization, repatriation, and reintegration of former FDLR members, calling it an important component of the broader peace agenda. Delegates reviewed progress under Phase One of the OPORD, including steps taken to improve intelligence sharing and information campaigns carried out by the DRC to encourage FDLR fighters to lay down their arms. The statement said the Parties held “open discussions to consider ongoing challenges and identify gaps and opportunities” to strengthen implementation. Early talks also began on Phase Two, which will focus on further neutralization of the FDLR and conditions for Rwanda to lift its defensive measures. The meeting also took stock of recent political developments, including the signing of the Doha Framework between the DRC government and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/M23. According to the statement, participants “recognized the benefit of maintaining close linkages between the Doha and Washington processes,” stressing that coordination between the two tracks would help consolidate progress. Both the DRC and Rwanda expressed gratitude for the support provided by the United States, Qatar, and the African Union. The JSCM delegation also thanked Togo for its plan to host the High-Level Meeting on the Coherence and Consolidation of the Peace Process in the DRC and the Great Lakes Region on January 17, 2026, saying the event would help strengthen trust between all sides. The statement also conveyed appreciation for President Trump, noting the “indispensable role he played throughout the process.” All participants reaffirming their commitment to “advancing durable peace and stability in eastern DRC and the Great Lakes region,” stressing that continued cooperation will be essential in the months ahead.