Montreux: Representatives from the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) have made significant progress in discussions about humanitarian access and judicial protection.

According to Qatar News Agency, the meetings held from April 13 to April 17 in Montreux, Switzerland, were part of the efforts to implement the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement, originally signed in 2025.

The discussions focused on ensuring life-saving humanitarian assistance for the people of eastern DRC. Both parties agreed to adhere to international laws concerning humanitarian aid, human rights, and refugee protection. They committed to safeguarding essential resources like food and water and maintaining infrastructure vital to civilian survival.

The agreement emphasizes the protection of humanitarian actors and the safe operation of relief efforts. Measures were also agreed upon to prevent the diversion or misuse of humanitarian aid and to ensure its impartial delivery based on assessed needs, free from discrimination.

Further commitments include the facilitation of legal processes for humanitarian organizations and the establishment of humanitarian corridors. The agreement also involves collaboration with the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region to operationalize the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus, enhancing monitoring of the ceasefire.

Immediate actions include the release of prisoners and discussions on reopening Goma Airport and financial institutions to support the humanitarian response. The parties are set to continue consultations and anticipate visits from African Union facilitators to further the peace process.

The DRC and AFC/M23 expressed gratitude to Qatar, the USA, Switzerland, Togo, and the United Nations for their support in this endeavor.