Doha: The State of Qatar has welcomed the release of 15 detainees by the Congolese authorities, facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), marking a significant step in the Doha Peace Process for Eastern DR Congo. The detainees were transferred and handed over to the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) on August 6 and 7, following the mechanism for the release of detained persons signed in Doha last September.
According to Qatar News Agency, Qatar emphasized that this development is an important step toward building trust between the involved parties. It also creates favorable conditions for further progress toward peaceful and sustainable solutions, thereby bolstering efforts to restore peace and stability in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The State of Qatar praised the ICRC's role in ensuring the release, safe transfer, and handover of detainees in adherence to humanitarian principles. Qatar also acknowledged the contributions of partners supporting the peace process.
Qatar reiterated its commitment to facilitating dialogue between the parties, aligning with its continued support for the peaceful settlement of conflicts and the promotion of regional security and stability. It expressed hope that this step would foster further confidence-building measures and help fulfill the aspirations of the Congolese people for peace, development, and prosperity.