President Paul Kagame delivered a message of gratitude, resolve, and forward-looking commitment as he addressed world leaders gathered in Washington for the signing of the Washington Accords, a landmark agreement aimed at ending three decades of conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Kagame began by acknowledging the African heads of state and government present, noting that their participation signaled broad continental support for the peace process. He also recognized the crucial diplomatic role played by Qatar, represented at the ceremony by Minister of State Kulaife, emphasizing that Doha’s contribution had been “absolutely central” in bringing the parties to this stage.

The Rwandan leader reserved his most emphatic appreciation for former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, who he said took on the mediation willingly and decisively, despite the conflict being far removed from global headlines. Kagame praised Trump’s intervention as timely and transformative, arguing that previous mediations had failed because they did not address root causes or lacked the momentum needed to achieve meaningful progress. Trump, he said, injected a “new and effective dynamism” that opened space for genuine breakthroughs.

Kagame commended Trump’s even-handed approach, highlighting that the American president refused to take sides and instead pushed all parties to focus on the future rather than past grievances. According to Kagame, Trump underscored that peace would bring prosperity, investment, and renewed opportunity, including from the United States.

He also emphasized the pragmatic nature of Trump’s mediation, noting that the process itself never became a hindrance or an obstacle. Kagame said this clarity of purpose spread through Trump’s team, singling out Secretary of State Marco Rubio and senior advisor Mossad Boulos for their indispensable role, stating that “we would not be here today without their efforts.”

The Rwandan president expressed confidence that the newly signed accords offered “the clearest and most viable path forward we have ever had.” He insisted that if the agreement were to falter, the failure would not rest with Trump or the mediators but with African leaders themselves. “It’s up to us in Africa, working with our partners, to consolidate and expand this peace,” Kagame said.

He warned that challenges were inevitable, but reassured participants that Rwanda would remain committed and responsible throughout the implementation phase. Rwanda’s sole objective, he said, has always been the safety and security of its people. After enduring immense tragedy in past decades, Kagame affirmed his country’s determination to move confidently toward a future of stability and prosperity.

Kagame concluded his remarks by thanking Trump and the assembled dignitaries for their attention and for their shared commitment to forging a durable peace in the Great Lakes region.