Egypt urges de-escalation in DR Congo, adherence to Washington peace deal

CAIRO – 13 December 2025: Egypt on Saturday called for calm in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and urged adherence to the Washington peace agreement, as renewed tensions and fighting worsen the humanitarian situation in the country.

In a statement, the Egyptian foreign ministry said it is closely monitoring developments in eastern Congo with deep concern, citing the rapid deterioration of humanitarian conditions in some areas and the urgent challenges facing civilians.

Egypt reaffirmed its support for the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Congolese state.

Egypt stressed the importance of de-escalation and halting any military escalation to help create conditions conducive to dialogue and the restoration of stability.

It underscored the need to respect the Washington peace agreement as a key framework for building confidence, easing tensions and advancing concrete steps toward peace in eastern Congo.

The statement also called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and for facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, while urging support for regional and international efforts to improve humanitarian conditions and prevent further deterioration.

Egypt reiterated its backing for regional and international initiatives aimed at strengthening security and stability, alleviating the suffering of affected populations and supporting all efforts to consolidate peace in the DR Congo.

The DR Congo is facing renewed fighting in its eastern provinces as foreign-backed M23 rebels advance despite a US-mediated peace agreement signed last week by the Congolese and Rwandan presidents.

The violence has been compounded by widespread displacement, civilian casualties, and a deepening humanitarian and public health crisis.