New york: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday welcomed the signing of a Declaration of Principles between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group, formally known as the March 23 Movement (AFC/M23).

According to Anadolu Agency, the Declaration of Principles was signed by representatives of both parties on Saturday following weeks of diplomatic engagement aimed at reducing violence in the eastern region of the country. Guterres expressed his support for the agreement in a statement posted on X, emphasizing the UN's commitment to supporting peace efforts, civilian protection, and stability in the DRC through collaboration with national authorities, as well as regional and international partners.

The newly signed declaration follows a separate peace agreement between Rwanda and Congo, which was signed on June 27 in Washington, raising hopes for an end to the prolonged conflict. Accusations have been made by Congo and Western nations against Rwanda, alleging its support for the M23 rebels since the group's resurgence in 2021. Rwanda, however, has consistently denied these charges.

The M23 rebel group, central to the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, has managed to control significant territories, including the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu, which were seized earlier this year.