Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels have signed a declaration to cease hostilities in eastern Congo. The deal, facilitated by Qatar, aims at addressing deep-rooted conflict causes but faces disagreement over key terms.

Doha: The signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River

Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group pledged to sign a peace agreement by August 18, at a ceremony in Doha on Saturday, a sign of progress even as outstanding details need to be negotiated.

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.