The Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group on Saturday signed a framework agreement in Doha, Qatar, marking a significant step toward a potential peace deal aimed at ending years of deadly conflict in eastern Congo. Representatives from both sides formalized the agreement during a ceremony in the Qatari capital.

The M23 rebellion—long alleged to be backed by neighboring Rwanda—captured Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, in January and has since expanded its control across parts of North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. Rwanda continues to deny accusations of supporting the group.

This year’s fighting has killed thousands of people and displaced hundreds of thousands more, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

Qatar has hosted several rounds of direct talks between the Congolese government and M23 since April. Negotiations up to this point have focused primarily on preconditions and confidence-building measures, with the newly signed framework agreement expected to guide the path toward a more comprehensive peace settlement.