Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo officials have written a draft peace agreement that could stop fighting after thirty years of war. American and Qatari diplomats helped the two African nations reach the deal during talks in Washington. The agreement calls for armed groups to stop fighting and give up their weapons in eastern Congo.
Technical teams from both countries signed the preliminary document on Wednesday. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend the formal signing ceremony next Friday. The deal builds on promises both nations made in April to respect each other's borders.
M23 rebels captured major cities in eastern Congo earlier this year. Many experts believe Rwanda supports these fighters. The rebel group took control of Goma in January and Bukavu later. They have set up their government in areas they control.
The fighting has killed thousands of people and forced hundreds of thousands from their homes. Congo asked America for help after losing territory to the rebels. The region contains valuable minerals used in electronics around the world.
Previous peace deals between these countries have failed. Last year Angola tried to help them reach an agreement but gave up in March. Experts remain unsure about details in this new draft agreement.
Technical teams from both countries signed the preliminary document on Wednesday. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend the formal signing ceremony next Friday. The deal builds on promises both nations made in April to respect each other's borders.
M23 rebels captured major cities in eastern Congo earlier this year. Many experts believe Rwanda supports these fighters. The rebel group took control of Goma in January and Bukavu later. They have set up their government in areas they control.
The fighting has killed thousands of people and forced hundreds of thousands from their homes. Congo asked America for help after losing territory to the rebels. The region contains valuable minerals used in electronics around the world.
Previous peace deals between these countries have failed. Last year Angola tried to help them reach an agreement but gave up in March. Experts remain unsure about details in this new draft agreement.
