China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, emphasized the need for international support to bolster solidarity and cooperation among the countries in Africa’s Great Lakes region during a recent UN Security Council briefing.
Fu highlighted the ongoing efforts by Great Lakes nations to pursue peace, security, and development, which have revitalized the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the surrounding area.
Despite these advancements, Fu noted that the region continues to face significant challenges, including persistent violent conflicts and a severe humanitarian crisis. He called on regional countries to enhance dialogue and reconciliation, remain committed to peaceful coexistence, and collaborate to overcome these obstacles.
Reaffirming China’s commitment, Fu stated, \"China reaffirms its support for the efforts of the DRC to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security, and is ready to continue its positive role to promote peace and stability in the region.\"
He also urged all armed groups to adhere to ceasefire agreements, cease violence, and support humanitarian initiatives to address the needs of displaced persons affected by conflict, health crises like the mpox epidemic, and food shortages.
Furthermore, Fu called on the international community, particularly developed nations, to honor their aid commitments and bridge the funding gap in humanitarian efforts to help refugees return home. He emphasized the importance of supporting the legitimate exploitation of natural resources and increasing technology transfer to enhance the region’s development capacity and prevent the recurrence of conflicts.
Concluding his remarks, Fu expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with the international community to contribute to lasting peace, development, and prosperity in the Great Lakes region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
