Joint Statement Between the Representatives of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Representatives of the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) on the Doha Process

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | 22 August, 2026

The following statement was released by the representatives of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the representatives of the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement, as well as the State of Qatar, the United States of America, the Republic of Togo (as the African Union mediator), Switzerland, and the African Union Commission, on the meetings held August 17 to August 21 in Switzerland, on the implementation of the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement.   

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From August 17 to August 21, 2026, representatives from the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and representatives from the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), along with the State of Qatar, United States of America, the Republic of Togo (as the African Union mediator), the African Union Commission, and Switzerland, convened in Switzerland to assess progress made and challenges encountered to date in the framework of the Doha Process.  They also discussed the path forward for the implementation of existing obligations and commitments and the negotiation of remaining protocols under the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the Government of the DRC and AFC/M23, signed in Doha on November 15, 2025. 

The Parties welcomed continued progress on the operationalization of the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+), including the establishment of its Secretariat, and the EJVM+ reconnaissance mission, with the logistical support of MONUSCO, conducted on August 20 in advance of the first EJVM+ ceasefire verification mission, scheduled for August 24 in Minembwe.  The Parties agreed on the importance of a standardized method for reporting allegations of ceasefire violations.

The Parties agreed to establish a mechanism tasked with reviewing progress and addressing challenges in implementation of obligations and commitments under the Doha Framework Agreement.

Following this evaluation, the Parties developed a roadmap setting out sequenced steps and timelines for negotiations under the Doha Framework Agreement and committed to flexibility and creativity within the existing structure provided by the Framework Agreement. The Parties agreed that the order of negotiation of the protocols does not dictate the order of implementation of the protocols. They reaffirmed their commitment to pursue negotiations towards comprehensive peace and conflict resolution through the implementation of the Framework Agreement. 

The Parties shared recommendations with the facilitation regarding the path forward for constructive negotiations and to promote implementation of commitments undertaken by both Parties.

The representatives of the Government of the DRC and the representatives of the AFC/M23 expressed their gratitude to the State of Qatar, the United States of America, the Republic of Togo as the AU Mediator, Switzerland, and the AU Commission for their steadfast support in advancing peace and stability in eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.

Qatar Strongly Condemns Israeli Attack on Civilian Vehicle in Damascus Countryside

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | August 22, 2026

The State of Qatar strongly condemns and denounces the Israeli drone attack on a civilian vehicle in the town of Beit Jinn in the Damascus countryside of the brotherly Syrian Arab Republic, which caused civilian injuries. It considers this an unacceptable assault and a violation of Syria’s sovereignty, as well as a threat to its security and safety.

The  Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasises that Israel’s continued violations of the sovereignty of the countries of the region constitute a grave approach, an unacceptable escalation, and a disregard for the provisions of international law.

The Ministry stresses the importance of the international community upholding its responsibilities in putting an end to these abuses and ensuring their non-recurrence, warning that the lack of accountability encourages further violations and imperils security and stability in the region.

In addition, the Ministry reiterates the State of Qatar’s ironclad position in standing by the Syrian Arab Republic, confirming its solidarity with the Syrian government in all actions taken to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

Foreign Ministers of Qatar and seven Arab and Islamic countries condemn Israel’s continued illegal settlement policies in the occupied Palestinian territory and reaffirm their rejection of the “E1” settlement plan

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | 21 August 2026

The Foreign Ministers of the State of Qatar, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Indonesia, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Republic of Türkiye, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Arab Republic of Egypt, unequivocally condemn Israel’s continued illegal settlement policies in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and categorically reject the “E1” settlement plan and related settlement activities east of occupied East Jerusalem.

They further reiterate their condemnation of the violations and acts of violence perpetrated by settlers, with the support of the Israeli occupying authorities, against the Palestinian people and their property. They stress that such acts in no way diminish the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and constitute violations of international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, while posing a serious threat to regional and international peace and security.

The Ministers warned that the “E1” settlement plan constitutes a dangerous escalation that further advances settlement expansion and annexation and undermines the geographical contiguity of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, particularly between the West Bank and East Jerusalem, thereby threatening the viability and realization of an independent, contiguous Palestinian State based on the 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as its capital. Such actions constitute a direct challenge to international efforts aimed at achieving peace, foremost among them President Donald Trump’s Comprehensive Plan, including its unequivocal rejection of annexation and forced displacement, and the mechanisms envisaged for its implementation, including through the Board of Peace, as well as President Trump’s firm commitment to not allow annexation of the West Bank, with a view to achieving stability and bringing the conflict to an end.

The Ministers reaffirm that the two- State solution, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, remains the only viable path towards a just, comprehensive and lasting peace. They warn that actions aimed at undermining this solution risk further escalating tensions, threatening regional and international peace and security, and jeopardizing prospects for lasting peace and stability in the region.

In this context, the Ministers support all efforts aimed at ensuring accountability, including through appropriate international measures and sanctions against entities and individuals responsible for illegal settlement activities, including the “E1” settlement plan, as well as those supporting, facilitating or implementing policies of settlement expansion and annexation. They further call for an end to any support or financing that contributes to the establishment, expansion or entrenchment of illegal settlements. They stress that the lack of accountability contributes to the continuation of violations and further undermines prospects for a just and comprehensive peace.

The Ministers call for immediate action to halt the “E1” settlement plan, rescind all measures taken in connection with it, and cease all settlement activities and other measures aimed at altering the geographic and demographic character of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. They further call upon the United Nations Security Council, all States and relevant international actors to uphold their responsibilities under international law and take urgent and effective measures to halt illegal settlement expansion, and to ensure the protection of the Palestinian people, safeguard their inalienable rights, including their right to self- determination, and realize their independent State, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs: Qatar, Egypt Enjoy Deep-rooted Relations

Source: Government of Qatar

El Alamein  | August 20, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani announced Thursday that the State of Qatar and the Arab Republic of Egypt have signed four agreements in the areas of customs cooperation and regulatory work, in addition to development and health cooperation, and the establishment of the HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani Hospital in Sohag, Egypt, expressing his hope that the hospital will constitute a qualitative leap for the health sector in the governorate.

During a joint press conference with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdelatty, following the seventh session of the Qatar-Egypt Joint Higher Committee, His Excellency emphasized the deep-rooted nature of Qatari-Egyptian relations, noting that they are fraternal and characterized by profound and firmly established ties, and that the two countries continuously strive to support and elevate them to new levels of cooperation in order to achieve the aspirations of the leadership of the two countries and the two fraternal peoples.

His Excellency said that the seventh session of the Qatar-Egypt Joint Higher Committee discussed ways to support and strengthen cooperation relations across various fields, as well as joint coordination regarding the current crises in the region.

His Excellency pointed out that HE President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi affirmed his support for joint efforts to find alternatives and solutions for supply chains, whether in relation to shipping lines or in various fields.

His Excellency also noted his meeting with HE Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, where they discussed the key joint projects between the State of Qatar and the Arab Republic of Egypt, voicing his happiness at the launch of the first phase of the “Alam Al Roum” project, and the hope that it will represent an addition to the projects implemented by Qatari Diar and Qatari investments in Egypt, as well as looking forward to discussing future opportunities in various fields, especially industrial fields, and in particular pharmaceutical industries.

Regarding the situation in the region, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs said that a number of regional issues were discussed during the meeting held with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdelatty, especially the situation in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories. He noted the pivotal stage that the region is currently going through after the Palestinian factions announced their acceptance of the peace plan and their readiness to move forward with the arrangements related to collecting weapons, as the chance is now for Israeli’s side to make a choice.

His Excellency highlighted the significant and intensive efforts, partnership, and joint work undertaken by the State of Qatar with Egypt and Turkiye to reach this stage. He voiced his hope that there would be a positive response from the Israeli side to implement its commitments, which it has not implemented since the first stage until now, as instead of dealing positively with these developments, it has continued to commit violations to this day, targeting civilians and escalating settlement activities, in addition to continuing attacks without deterrence, whether in Lebanon or Syria.

His Excellency stressed that Israeli actions represent a major factor in destabilizing the region, noting that the region continues to extend its hand for peace and stability, while these outstretched hands are being rejected.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also noted that the talks addressed a number of other issues in the region, particularly the crisis in Sudan and support for political solutions in Libya, where support for the unity and territorial integrity of Sudan, Libya and all Arab lands was emphasized.

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani said that the region is going through difficult circumstances, especially since the beginning of the American-Iranian war, which has produced very harmful repercussions on the entire region, not just the Gulf region. He indicated that he discussed with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdelatty the efforts that the State of Qatar continues to exert in this regard within the framework of its mediation in partnership with Pakistan, in light of the current stalemate and situation that has hindered many things.

His Excellency stressed the necessity and importance of ensuring the freedom, security and safety of navigation, whether in the Strait of Hormuz or the Bab El Mandeb Strait, calling for a return to the situation as it was before the war, and stressing the need for international navigation not to be held hostage or used as a tool for political blackmail by any party, while condemning all those who obstruct this movement.

His Excellency stressed that the State of Qatar will continue its efforts with its brothers in the Gulf States, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the region to support diplomatic solutions. He expressed his hope that solutions will be reached soon between the two parties and a return to the memorandum of understanding and diplomacy instead of the language of escalation and blackmail.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of continued coordination and consultation between Qatar and Egypt, noting the anticipation of the eighth session of the Joint Higher Committee to be held in Doha. 

In turn, HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdelatty considered that the convening of the Joint Committee meeting comes at a time when political relations and the course of economic cooperation between the two countries are witnessing a qualitative leap, under the direct guidance of HE President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to elevate and deepen bilateral relations across various fields.

His Excellency added that the seventh session of the Qatar-Egypt Joint Higher Committee formed an opportune moment to hold extensive discussions with HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani within the framework of the daily communication and consultation between the two sides, and to agree on interpreting the distinguished bilateral relations that unite the two countries into tangible steps that meet the aspirations of the two fraternal peoples, especially by doubling the volume of trade and commercial exchange between the two countries.

His Excellency noted that an agreement was reached to expand partnerships between the business communities of the two countries, and to look forward to holding the third edition of the Egyptian-Qatari Investment Forum, in addition to discussing the formation of a joint council for businessmen in the two countries, which would enhance mutual investment and trade relations. He stressed the agreement on the need to build on the momentum witnessed in investment relations between the two countries, especially after the completion of the “Alam Al Roum” deal on the North Coast, where he expressed full welcome for the announcement of the launch of the first phase of the project a few days ago, in addition to the launch of other projects in the Suez Canal Economic Zone.

His Excellency also noted that ways to enhance investment and trade relations between the two countries were discussed, as well as cooperation in the health sector, where an agreement was signed today regarding a grant provided by the Qatari side to establish the HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani Hospital in Sohag.

He noted that the talks also addressed the significant development in relations in the energy sectors, both traditional and renewable, especially after the signing of the memorandum of understanding between the two countries in the field of energy in January, and cooperation in strengthening logistical corridors related to the transport and storage of energy between the two countries, in order to deal with any future challenges related to the issue of navigation. He pointed out that there is a convergence of views between the two countries regarding the emphasis on freedom of navigation and the need for full compliance with the rules of international law, especially the International Convention on the Law of the Sea, which guarantees full and complete freedom of maritime navigation.

His Excellency reiterated that the security of the State of Qatar and the security of the fraternal Gulf States are an integral part of Egyptian national security and collective Arab national security. HE noted that HE President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi affirmed this during his meeting this morning with HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani.

HE the Egyptian Foreign Minister also stressed Egypt’s full solidarity with the State of Qatar and the fraternal Gulf States in the face of any attacks targeting the State of Qatar and the region. He stressed Egypt’s clear condemnation of the Iranian attacks on the State of Qatar and the Gulf States, considering them a blatant violation of the sovereignty of these fraternal States and a breach of the rules of international law, and that there is no justification or excuse for their occurrence.

His Excellency noted the continued close coordination between Cairo and Doha to push for a final and sustainable agreement on Iran that puts an end to the war and military escalation, addresses the security concerns of the fraternal Gulf states, and contributes to stability in the region.

Regarding the Palestinian issue, His Excellency affirmed the existence of full coordination between the three mediators: Qatar, Turkiye and Egypt, noting that these efforts and coordination resulted in convincing the Palestinian factions to move and respond to the demands related to limiting and collecting weapons, which was accomplished thanks to the cooperation and coordination between the three mediators, and the multiple meetings hosted by Cairo in the presence of the State of Qatar and Turkiye.

His Excellency also stressed the need to focus now on implementing the roadmap, stressing that Israel has the choice now to fulfill its obligations and implement the requirements required of it according to US President Donald Trump’s peace plan, whether with regard to the requirements of the first phase, which includes the entry of humanitarian aid and the requirements for early recovery and the rehabilitation of infrastructure and hospitals in the Gaza Strip, or the requirements of the second phase, especially with regard to restricting weapons, implementing the Israeli withdrawal from the Strip and stopping the targeting.

HE the Egyptian Foreign Minister added that this also includes enabling the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) to carry out its temporary tasks within the Strip, as well as deploying Palestinian police elements and the international stabilization force to monitor the ceasefire, leading to enabling the Palestinian people to exercise their legitimate right to self-determination and establish their independent state on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international resolutions.

Qatar Condemns Kabul Educational Center Bombing

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | August 20, 2026

The State of Qatar condemns the bombing at an educational center in Kabul, Afghanistan, which injured dozens of people.

 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates Qatar’s firm stance against violence, terrorism, and criminal acts, regardless of motives.

The Ministry also wishes the injured a speedy recovery.

7th Session of Qatar-Egypt Joint Higher Committee Convenes in El Alamein

Source: Government of Qatar

El Alamein (Egypt), August 20, 2026

The seventh session of the Joint Higher Committee between the State of Qatar and the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt convened today in El Alamein.

The Qatari side was chaired by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, while that of Egypt was headed by HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdelatty.

During the session, the two sides reviewed cooperation relations between both countries and ways to support and strengthen them, particularly in the fields of economy, investment, diplomacy, health, agriculture, and food security. Both sides commended the qualitative leap in Qatari-Egyptian relations guided by the leadership of both nations, and the growing pace of high-level visits, which reflects a shared political will to elevate these relations to broader horizons.
The latest regional developments were also discussed, along with diplomatic efforts to de-escalate and contain tensions and enhance security and stability in the region, in addition to the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories.

In this context, both sides affirmed their rejection of any scenarios aimed at displacing Palestinians from their land or altering the demographic or geographic composition of the occupied Palestinian territories. They stressed the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring the security, safety, and freedom of maritime navigation and the flow of international trade. They also emphasized the importance of continued coordination between Doha and Cairo to reach a final and sustainable agreement that ends the war and military escalation and addresses the concerns of the brotherly Gulf states.

The session also addressed the latest developments in the Sudanese crisis. In this regard, both sides emphasized the importance of the international community fulfilling its responsibilities towards Sudan’s neighboring countries. They stressed the necessity of preserving Sudan’s unity and territorial integrity, rejecting any threat to its unity or the establishment of parallel entities, and supporting Sudanese state institutions as a fundamental pillar for restoring security and stability.

They signed a draft agreement on mutual administrative assistance for the optimal application of the customs law and for the suppression, investigation and combat of customs violations, a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in the field of oversight work between the State Audit Bureau of the State of Qatar and the Central Auditing Organization of the Arab Republic of Egypt, a memorandum of understanding for cooperation between the Qatar Fund for Development and the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development, and a grant agreement between the Qatar Fund for Development and the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population regarding the establishment of HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani Hospital in Sohag Governorate in the Arab Republic of Egypt, in addition to the minutes of the seventh session of the Joint Higher Committee.

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Secretary-General of Arab League

Source: Government of Qatar

Cairo | August 20, 2026

 HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met in Cairo on Thursday with HE Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Nabil Fahmy.

At the outset of the meeting, His Excellency congratulated the Secretary-General of the Arab League on the confidence placed in him by the member states, wishing him success in supporting the League’s mission.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also affirmed the State of Qatar’s keen interest in strengthening joint action with the League of Arab States and consolidating cooperative relations, in order to fulfill the aspirations of the Arab peoples for security, stability, and development.

The meeting discussed the latest regional developments, as well as diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions, containing conflicts, and enhancing security and stability in the region.

The two sides also discussed the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, in addition to a number of topics of mutual interest.

 

President of Egypt Meets Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs

Source: Government of Qatar

Cairo | August 20, 2026

HE President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met in Cairo on Thursday with HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, who is visiting Egypt at the head of the State of Qatar’s delegation to the seventh session of the Qatari-Egyptian Joint Higher Committee.

At the outset of the meeting, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs conveyed the greetings of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to HE the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, along with His Highness’s wishes for his continued health and happiness and for the brotherly people of Egypt further progress and prosperity.

For his part, HE President El-Sisi entrusted HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs with his greetings to HH the Amir, wishing His Highness continued health and happiness and the Qatari people further development and growth.

During the meeting, both sides discussed the latest regional developments, diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and enhancing security and stability in the region, as well as the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories. They also exchanged views on a host of regional and international issues of common concern.

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Saudi Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Riyadh | August 19, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met Wednesday in Riyadh with HH Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah Al-Saud.

The meeting discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to strengthen and develop the, along with promoting joint action across various fields.

The meeting also discussed the latest regional developments, diplomatic efforts to reduce escalation, contain tensions and enhance security and stability in the region, and the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories.

The two sides stressed the importance of continuing coordination and consultation between the two fraternal countries and unifying positions regarding current developments, in order to strengthen efforts aimed at consolidating regional security and stability.

In this context, they stressed their support for efforts to resolve disputes through diplomatic means, emphasizing the importance of integrating regional and international efforts to defuse tensions and promote dialogue.

The two sides also stressed the need to ensure the security and safety of freedom of navigation, particularly in the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea, in order to preserve the smooth flow of international trade, enhance the security of vital sea corridors, and achieve stability in the region.

Both sides reiterated the condemnation by the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of Israel’s declared rejection of the roadmap aimed at completing the implementation of US President Donald Trump’s comprehensive plan to end the conflict in Gaza, which was endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803, as well as Israel’s rejection of the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Chairman of Hamas Political Bureau

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | August 19, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Wednesday with Chairman of the Political Bureau of Islamic Resistance Movement in Palestine (Hamas) Dr. Khalil Al Hayya and a number of the movement’s leaders.

The meeting discussed the developments in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories.
HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs praised the movement’s decision to accept the roadmap for completing the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, voicing his hope that this would contribute to ending the suffering of the fraternal Palestinian people in the Strip and achieve their aspirations for security and stability.

His Excellency also stressed the need for the international community to assume its responsibilities and pressure Israel to fulfill its obligations under the agreement and stop its ongoing violations of the rights of the Palestinian people, in order to ensure the completion of the implementation of the road map, leading to the achievement of peace and stability in the Gaza Strip.