The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda have agreed to take fresh steps to reduce tensions and advance a peace deal reached last year.

The agreement, reached during talks in Washington, includes commitments to respect sovereignty, protect civilians, and begin the disengagement of forces in eastern Congo. Kinshasa also pledged intensified efforts to neutralize the FDLR rebel group.

The move comes amid continued fighting in the region and increased pressure from the United States, which recently sanctioned Rwanda over alleged involvement.

While Rwanda denies backing the M23 rebels and accuses the DRC of breaching the agreement, both sides say the new measures are aimed at stabilizing the conflict-hit region.