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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 57794, member: 636"]
Washington praised the Democratic Republic of Congo and the AFC/M23 rebel group for establishing a prisoner exchange agreement. The United States described this development as significant progress toward reducing violence in eastern regions. Officials emphasized that Qatar played an essential role through diplomatic efforts behind closed doors. The International Committee of the Red Cross will oversee prisoner verification and facilitate safe releases. This arrangement addresses more than 700 detained individuals held by both parties.

The agreement emerges during active combat in North Kivu province, where M23 forces have expanded territorial control. Fighting has forced 2.7 million civilians from their homes since late 2021. American officials urged both sides to build upon this achievement for broader peace negotiations. Regional experts believe successful implementation requires genuine commitment from all participants. The prisoner release mechanism represents the most concrete step toward reducing tensions since the conflict resumed.
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