Trump to convene with Rwanda and DR Congo leaders to sign peace agreement

US President Donald Trump is set to host the leaders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the White House for the formal signing of a peace agreement. The accord, designed to bring an end to long-standing regional conflicts, will be endorsed by President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda.

The agreement was initially negotiated and signed by the foreign ministers of both nations in Washington back in June. Despite that, both countries have accused each other of breaching the deal's terms. The upcoming ceremony will see Tshisekedi and Kagame officially ratify the agreement, with a number of African and Arab leaders anticipated to attend.

The announcement comes amid rising tensions in eastern DRC, a region rich in natural resources, where clashes between government forces and rebel groupsallegedly supported by Rwandahave intensified. The United States has been actively mediating the peace process in the conflict-stricken region, partly to encourage Western investment in the local mining sector.

Author: Gavin Porter