Paris: The State of Qatar participated in the Conference on Peace and Prosperity for the Great Lakes Region, held in Paris. Qatar was represented at the conference by HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi. In his address, His Excellency stated that over the past year, Qatar has worked closely with regional and international partners to assist parties in the Great Lakes region in transitioning from confrontation to dialogue.
According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency highlighted the Doha Declaration of Principles, signed on July 19, 2025, as a result of understandings reached in Washington in June 2025. This declaration laid a foundation for continued engagement and confidence-building between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congo River Alliance (March 23 Movement). The parties, with Qatar’s facilitation, are now working toward a framework peace agreement that would reinforce the ceasefire, ensure humanitarian access, and pave the way for a comprehensive settlement.
His Excellency explained that, alongside diplomatic efforts, Qatar has provided humanitarian assistance to support emergency relief operations and meet the urgent needs of vulnerable communities affected by the conflict. Through the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and in partnership with UNICEF, Qatar has allocated USD 25 million to expand education and child protection programs in conflict-affected areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
These initiatives aim to restore hope for thousands of children, strengthen local resilience, and ensure that the fruits of peace are reflected in classrooms and communities. His Excellency emphasized that these efforts reflect Qatar’s belief that peace must be sustained through tangible improvements in the lives of those it seeks to protect.
He underscored that humanitarian diplomacy is central to Qatar’s foreign policy. The State continues to work with international and local partners across regions to deliver life-saving assistance, protect civilians, and support access to education, healthcare, and human dignity for those affected by conflict. His Excellency confirmed that Qatar’s approach is guided by the conviction that every step toward peace must begin with a commitment to alleviating human suffering.
The State of Qatar will remain a reliable partner, working with France, Togo, the African Union, the United States, and all international partners to help the Great Lakes region transition from fragility to stability and from crisis to a lasting peace.