Peace Talks Between Rwanda and DRC Underway in Qatar

NEW YORK – Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jasim al Thani of Qatar shared with Breitbart News on Thursday that discussions to achieve peace between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are happening in Doha, with hopes for a resolution soon.

The interview took place on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Al Thani noted that a recent Israeli military strike in Doha had negatively impacted ongoing peace mediation efforts that Qatar was facilitating, particularly those between Rwanda and the DRC. Despite these setbacks, he emphasized Qatar’s commitment to pursue a broader agreement involving both nations, as well as other conflicts where Qatar is mediating.

“We are still making progress and actively collaborating with the US administration to foster lasting peace,” Al Thani stated during a detailed conversation at Qatar’s permanent mission to the United Nations. “This is a continuous endeavor. The disturbances in Doha, unfortunately, have disrupted mediation on various issues, including DRC and Rwanda conflicts. However, we will persist in our efforts to assist the United States and the international community.”

While the Foreign Ministers of Rwanda and the DRC signed an initial peace agreement in Washington, D.C. earlier this year, significant obstacles still hinder the establishment of lasting peace. Qatar’s involvement focuses on addressing the threat posed by M23, a paramilitary group backed by Rwanda that operates within the DRC. After this mediation phase, discussions will also aim to enhance economic ties between the two countries—a goal highlighted by President Donald Trump’s intent to host a summit with the presidents of Rwanda and DRC at the White House.

Al Thani pointed out that mediation for peace is a central element of Qatar’s foreign policy. The nation has a history of facilitating talks not only between Israel and Hamas but also between the US and Iran.

“Qatar’s approach to mediation revolves around nurturing good relationships, maintaining open communication with all parties, and ensuring the negotiations remain constructive,” Al Thani explained. “This principle is a cornerstone of our foreign policy. We believe that linking mediation efforts with post-conflict development agendas has proven beneficial.”

He stressed that integrating future economic prosperity with peace negotiations is crucial, an approach that President Trump has also adopted during his presidency.

“Now is the time to foster peace and economic prosperity, as they are intertwined,” he remarked. “I truly believe that merging peace efforts with economic interests is a practical path to achieving lasting peace.”

Although Qatar has connections with countries like China and Russia, Al Thani expressed that the strongest energy ties exist with the US.

“We trade with China and are their main gas exporter,” he noted. “We also have investment links with Russia. However, in the gas market, we are essentially competitors. Yet, our principal energy relationship is with the US.”

Beyond energy, Al Thani highlighted the strong bond Qatar has with the US. Notably, Qatar hosts the largest US air force base outside American soil, which symbolizes their defense partnership.

“Our partnership encompasses numerous dimensions,” Al Thani remarked. “Defense is fundamental. Centcom is home to over 10,000 US troops, making it the largest air force base beyond the US. This reflects the depth of the US-Qatar defense and security relationship, as well as deep-rooted mutual investments across various sectors, including education, culture, and business.”

Further details from Al Thani’s interview with Breitbart News will be forthcoming.