(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) NEW YORK, July 21 (KUNA) -- Secretary General Antonio Guterres welcomed the signature of the Declaration of Principles (DoP) between the Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 movement, said spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric in a statement.
Guterres stated that the Declaration "opens a pathway" towards lasting peace, security, and the return of displaced persons and refugees, urging all parties to ensure the swift implementation of the commitments undertaken, Dujarric added in the statement release Sunday.
The UN chief expressed his appreciation to the State of Qatar for its facilitation of this process.
He reiterated the United Nations' commitment to supporting efforts toward peace, protection of civilians, and stability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in close collaboration with national authorities, regional and international partners.
The DoP called for a permanent ceasefire and preventing any attempt to retake locations by force. It will come to effect on July 29 and official negotiations will start on August eight.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry announced in a statement the signing of the DoP after three months of talks. (end)
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