In a statement published on June 27, 2025, the Beninese government, through its foreign affairs ministry, expressed its satisfaction following the signing of the peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, which took place in Washington under the auspices of the United States.

Like the African Union, which hailed it as “an important step”, Benin describes this agreement as “historic”, seeing it as a major advance in ending several decades of armed conflict in the eastern DRC, a region marked by countless human losses, massive population displacements, and persistent regional instability.

A commitment towards regional peace

The Beninese government commends the authorities of the DRC and Rwanda for their efforts for peace and dialogue. It also applauds the decisive involvement of American diplomacy, as well as the contribution of regional and international actors, including the African Union, the East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

In its message, Cotonou encourages both parties to work tirelessly to consolidate a fair, lasting and mutually beneficial peace, respecting the sovereignty of states and their territorial integrity.

Benin also calls for “silencing the guns once and for all,” emphasizing the urgency to prioritize diplomatic routes, reconstruction, and national reconciliation. The Beninese government reaffirms its commitment to the principles of peace, regional solidarity, and peaceful coexistence, in compliance with the United Nations Charter and the African Union’s peace instruments.

With this statement, Benin intends to reaffirm its solidarity with the peoples of the Great Lakes region, while renewing its commitment to peace and stability on the African continent.

The statement