Peace Hopes Rise as Rwanda and Congo Sign Deal in US

Intermediate | July 7, 2025

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A New Chapter for Peace and Money

A Historic Step in Washington

Great news for a troubled region! Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) signed the Rwanda and Congo peace agreement in Washington, D.C., on June 27, 2025. This deal, helped by the United States, aims to stop the fighting that has caused so much suffering in eastern Congo for years.

From Conflict to Cooperation

It also wants to bring in new money and business, especially in the area of valuable minerals.

This agreement is seen as a big step forward after a long time of conflict. By working together and inviting outside money, both countries hope to improve their economies.

Turning a New Leaf

It’s like they are trying to turn a new leaf and use the region’s wealth, like gold, cobalt, and lithium, for peace and development instead of conflict.

What’s in the Deal?

Building on Past Agreements

So, what did they agree to? The foreign ministers from both countries signed the agreement, which builds on a previous understanding from 2024.

Key Actions Within 90 Days

A main point is that Rwandan troops should leave eastern Congo within 90 days. They also plan to start working on a way to connect their economies more closely in the next 90 days.

U.S. Involvement and Future Plans

The deal also includes promises to respect each other’s borders and not support armed groups. At the same time, the U.S. government also hopes this agreement will help American companies get involved in the mineral trade there.

Still Some Challenges Ahead

Rwanda and Congo Peace Agreement Faces Obstacles

Leaders from both countries are expected to come back to Washington soon to sign more agreements, showing their commitment to making this peace last. However, some challenges remain, especially with rebel groups still active.

Vocabulary

Agreement (noun): A decision or plan made by two or more people or groups.
- Example: “They reached an agreement after long talks.”
Conflict (noun): A serious disagreement or fight.
- Example: “The conflict in the region has lasted for years.”
Investment (noun): The act of putting money into something to make a profit.
- Example: “Foreign investment can help a country’s economy grow.”
Region (noun): An area of a country or the world that has its own special qualities.
- Example: “Eastern Congo is a mineral-rich region.”
Mediated (verb): Helped two groups agree by trying to find a solution.
- Example: “The United States mediated the deal”
Withdraw (verb): To take back or remove.
- Example: “The troops agreed to withdraw from the area.”
Framework (noun): A basic structure of ideas or rules.
- Example: “They will create a framework for economic cooperation.”
Territorial Integrity (noun): The idea that a country’s borders should be respected and not changed by force.
- Example: “Both sides promised to respect each other’s territorial integrity.”
Hostilities (noun): Acts of war or fighting.
- Example: “They agreed to stop all hostilities.”
Displaced (adjective): Forced to leave one’s home.
- Example: “Thousands of people were displaced by the fighting.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

Who signed the peace agreement in Washington, D.C.?
Besides ending fighting, what is another main goal of the agreement?
What are the two main actions the agreement says should happen within 90 days?
Why is the United States interested in this region?
Why might it be difficult to achieve lasting peace even with this agreement?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Why do you think peace agreements are often hard to make successful?
How can economic cooperation help prevent conflict between countries?
What role do other countries or international organizations play in helping solve conflicts?
How might the lives of ordinary people in eastern Congo change if the peace deal is successful?
Is it fair for other countries to seek access to minerals as part of a peace deal?

Related Idiom

Putting their money where their mouth is

Meaning: To show that what you say is true by spending money or taking action.
Example: The countries are putting their money where their mouth is by signing the deal and seeking investment.

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This article was inspired by: Reuters, June 27, 2025