• The Democratic Republic of the Congo and M23 rebel group signed a framework peace deal in Qatar.
• This agreement aims to establish a structured path toward ending fighting and improving humanitarian conditions.
• Violence continues despite the agreement, highlighting the need for effective implementation.
• The deal includes eight protocols focused on governance, economic recovery, and refugee return.
• International efforts by the US and Qatar are crucial to this mediation process.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group have signed a framework agreement in Doha, Qatar, aimed at ending years of conflict in eastern Congo. The signing ceremony marked a significant step in the peace negotiation process, which has involved key international players, including the Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Africanews.

Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, emphasized the importance of transforming the framework into tangible outcomes, stating, "Peace cannot be enforced by force, but is built through confidence, mutual respect and sincere commitment," as observed in multiple reports including AA and Reuters.

The peace framework consists of eight protocols, with two already signed, involving **ceasefire monitoring** and **prisoner exchange** agreements. Further discussions will cover the remaining protocols, including governance reforms and the return of internally displaced persons, according to multiple sources like Al Jazeera and Africanews.

Despite the agreement, violence persists; reports indicate that fighting continues in eastern Congo, notably with the M23's recent advances despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. This complexity underscores the challenges ahead in achieving lasting peace, as highlighted by sources including Africanews and AA.