Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels have signed a declaration to cease hostilities in eastern Congo. The deal, facilitated by Qatar, aims at addressing deep-rooted conflict causes but faces disagreement over key terms.

Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group pledged to sign a peace agreement by August 18, at a ceremony in Doha on Saturday, a sign of progress even as outstanding details need to be negotiated.

Congo and Rwanda-backed rebels have signed a declaration of principles for a permanent ceasefire in eastern Congo, where ethnic tensions and quest for rich minerals have resulted in one of Africa's longest conflicts with thousands killed this year.

Congo and the M23 rebel group on Saturday pledged to sign a peace agreement by Aug. 18, a sign of progress even as outstanding details need to be negotiated. Representatives for both sides were at a ceremony in Doha following months of Qatari mediation.

Democratic Republic of Congo has agreed to pay more than 40 million euros ($46.37 million) in a sponsorship deal with Spanish soccer club Barcelona that would see a logo promoting tourism appear on some team apparel,