China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, has called on the international community to bolster support for countries in Africa’s Great Lakes region. Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing on Tuesday, Fu emphasized the importance of solidarity and cooperation in building a shared future for the region.
In recent times, nations within the Great Lakes region have actively pursued peace, security, and development initiatives, breathing new life into the revitalization of the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the wider region. However, Fu highlighted that these countries still face significant challenges, including persistent violent conflicts and a severe humanitarian crisis.
“The countries in the Great Lakes region live side by side with common interests and a shared future,” Fu remarked. “Resolving differences through dialogue and consultation and promoting good neighborliness serve the long-term and fundamental interests of all regional countries.”
Fu urged regional nations to strengthen dialogue and reconciliation efforts, remain committed to peaceful coexistence, and work collaboratively to address shared challenges. He also stressed the need to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and promote common development to enhance stability in the region.
Expressing China’s stance, Fu affirmed, “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 acknowledged the joint efforts made by countries in the region to combat armed groups and strengthen border and defense cooperation. Additionally, Fu recognized the active role of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) in protecting civilians.
Fu called upon all armed groups to adhere to the ceasefire agreements, cease hostilities, and uphold the momentum of de-escalation. “All parties concerned should honor their commitments under the frameworks of the Luanda process and the Nairobi process, and refrain from providing support to any armed group,” he urged.
Highlighting the humanitarian concerns, Fu noted the large concentration of displaced persons in the DRC and Sudan due to prolonged conflicts, the spread of the mpox epidemic, and widespread food insecurity. He appealed to the international community, especially developed countries, to fulfill their aid commitments and close the humanitarian funding gaps to facilitate the return of refugees.
Fu also emphasized the importance of supporting regional countries in utilizing their natural resources legitimately to improve livelihoods. He encouraged increased technology transfer and application to enhance the independent development capacities of these nations, aiming to eliminate the root causes of recurring conflicts.
“As a strong supporter and companion of Africa on its road to modernization, China is ready to work with the international community to contribute more to the lasting peace, development, and prosperity in the Great Lakes region,” Fu concluded.
