Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi signed a peace agreement and a framework for regional economic integration in Washington, DC, aiming to end longstanding tensions between the two countries.

The United States and the DRC also signed a long-term strategic partnership, pledging a shared commitment to economic and resource security and promoting sustainable development for both nations.

The peace agreement was signed in the presence of US President Donald Trump. Speaking after the ceremony, Trump said, "This is a great day for the world, for Africa; these two countries have a lot to be proud of."

President Kagame described Trump as a "non-partisan" leader who "immediately" seized the opportunity to advance peace.

The agreement follows a previous attempt in June last year, when the foreign ministers of Rwanda and the DRC signed a deal that quickly collapsed, with both countries pursuing legal action against each other.

In the lead-up to the new agreement, fighting had intensified in eastern Congo, a mineral-rich region, between government forces and rebels reportedly backed by Rwanda.

Trump also highlighted a separate agreement with both countries, saying it would "open new doors of opportunity" for the exploitation of key minerals.