The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has formally received a signed copy of the mechanism for the release of detainees linked to the conflict between DR Congo and AFC/M23 rebels, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday, September 15. ALSO READ: Kinshasa, M23 rebels sign prisoner exchange deal, says Trump advisor The prisoner release mechanism was first revealed on September 12 by Masad Boulos, senior advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, who described it as a “pivotal step” toward de-escalating hostilities and restoring peace in eastern DR Congo. The ICRC received the agreement in Doha, in the presence of Qatari officials acting as mediators, alongside representatives from Kinshasa and the rebels. The agreement gives the ICRC the mandate to act as a neutral intermediary to identify, verify, and facilitate the secure release of detainees held by both sides. According to the statement, the mechanism marks “a significant milestone towards enhancing opportunities for achieving sustainable peace in eastern Congo.” ALSO READ: Renewed Doha talks ‘critical step’ to peace deal, says Trump advisor It comes after a series of high-stakes negotiations in Doha aimed at reviving the peace process following months of renewed clashes in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The parties had convened to assess the implementation of the Doha Principles Agreement signed on July 19. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry underscored that the prisoner exchange agreement reflects “the culmination of successful talks” and builds on previous humanitarian efforts. The ICRC had earlier assisted in the transfer of more than 1,300 disarmed combatants and their families from Goma to Kinshasa between April and May last year. After the two parties missed the August 18 deadline to sign a peace agreement, the rebels demanded that Kinshasa release prisoners as a confidence building measure and one of conditions to return to the negotiations table in Doha.
