Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have reached a draft peace agreement, mediated by the US and Qatar, aimed at ending decades of conflict in eastern DR Congo.

The deal includes the disengagement, disarmament, and possible integration of armed groups, a joint security mechanism, and respect for sovereignty.

While Rwanda denies backing the M23 rebels, who control parts of the region, the agreement could pave the way for major Western investment in the mineral-rich area, the BBC has reported.

The deal is set to be signed next week, but key questions remain, including whether M23 will withdraw and how disarmament and refugee returns will be handled.

Written by B.C. Begley