Rwanda and DRC in final talks on regional Economic integration framework
The United States has announced that Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have entered the final round of negotiations to establish an economic cooperation framework expected to benefit both nations and the wider region.
Speaking on the morning of October 1, 2025, U.S. Special Advisor for Partnerships with Africa, Massad Boulos, said he had welcomed delegations from Rwanda and the DRC to begin the concluding phase of talks on the economic partnership project.
Boulos explained that the cooperation will focus on key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, mining, health, trade, and tourism creating jobs and development opportunities for citizens.
This economic cooperation initiative builds on the peace agreement signed between Rwanda and the DRC on June 27, 2025, with U.S. support.
Once the two countries reach consensus on all aspects of the project, they are expected to sign a final economic agreement, which President Donald Trump had previously highlighted in July.
Boulos emphasized that the economic partnership will foster peace in the region and deliver tangible benefits to millions of people, who themselves will play a role in sustaining lasting peace and development.
To make this cooperation viable, a joint security mechanism has been established to oversee the implementation of security measures. These include dismantling the FDLR terrorist group and lifting Rwanda’s security restrictions.
Preparations for dismantling the FDLR a group seen as a major security threat to both Rwanda and the DRC are expected to begin in early October 2025.