US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, about the worrying situation in eastern DRC. They addressed the issue of violence and humanitarian distress there.
The discussion also focused on the need to end Rwandan support for the M23 armed group, as well as to cease collaborations with other non-state armed groups, in particular the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).
The Secretary of State also recalled the urgency of disarming the M23, in accordance with the Luanda Communique, and to respect the obligations of the Luanda Communique.
He stressed the need for a peaceful dialogue between the parties, without hate speech or divisive rhetoric. He also affirmed the right of the Congolese people to demonstrate peacefully, and the commitment of the United States to free and fair elections in the DRC.
This situation can only challenge the international community, and recalls the importance of actions to preserve peace and stability in this region of Africa. The media continue to relay shocking images of the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC, which require urgent action from the authorities and the international community.
Indeed, the stakes are high, and the safety and well-being of the populations affected by this crisis situation are at stake.
In short, the news of the region is marked by a situation of violence and precariousness which requires a global awareness and concerted action, in order to preserve peace and stability in this region of Africa.