DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels have signed a declaration of principles for a permanent ceasefire in eastern Congo, where ethnic tensions and quest for rich minerals have resulted in one of Africa’s longest conflicts with thousands killed this year.

Congo and the M23 militia have committed to "building trust" through various measures, including an exchange of prisoners and detainees as well as restoring state authority in all parts of the country, including rebel-held areas, Qatari minister of state Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khulaifi said.

As the Senate prepares to take up the rescissions package, lawmakers should remember: Peacekeeping isn’t charity, it’s strategy.

The agreement marks the first direct commitment from both sides since rebels seized key cities in eastern Congo.