Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels on Saturday signed a declaration of principles in Qatar to end decadeslong fighting and commit to a comprehensive peace agreement that would include the restoration of state authorities in key eastern cities controlled by the insurgents.

Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels on Saturday signed a declaration of principles in Qatar to end fighting in eastern Congo that commits them to a permanent ceasefire to be signed in one month.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels have signed ceasefire deal in Qatar to end fighting between the warring sides. Dubbed the Declaration of Principles, Saturday's agreement seen by the BBC, says includes that both sides must refrain from attacks, "hate propaganda" and "any attempt to seize by force new positions on the ground".