Democratic Republic of the Congo Prime Minister Judith Suminwa recently spoke at the United Nations General Assembly, detailing the government's priorities on various international issues. In her address, Suminwa emphasized the importance of tackling pressing concerns such as security, reform of multilateralism, and development challenges. The Prime Minister's speech underscored the need for the international community to work together to address these pressing issues. Suminwa's address comes at a critical time for the DR Congo, which is grappling with multiple challenges.
One of the key areas Suminwa focused on was the security situation in the eastern part of the country. The region has been plagued by conflict and humanitarian crises, and the DR Congo government is seeking to strengthen its response to these challenges. Suminwa also highlighted the need for reform of the multilateral system, emphasizing the importance of respecting international law and promoting equitable distribution of benefits. This is crucial for the DR Congo, which is seeking to play a more active role in international affairs.
The DR Congo is also facing significant development challenges, including the fight against Ebola and the protection of the Congo Basin. Suminwa noted that the government is prioritizing the response to Ebola, in a context where Congolese authorities are seeking to strengthen their capacity to respond to health crises. The protection of the Congo Basin, considered a major issue in the fight against climate change, was also highlighted. The Congo Basin is a vital ecosystem that supports a wide range of biodiversity and plays a critical role in regulating the global climate.
Another critical issue Suminwa addressed was the need for financing for development. The Prime Minister estimated that the DR Congo needs over $70 billion to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. This funding gap highlights the significant resources required to support the country's economic and social transformations. The DR Congo government is seeking to mobilize these resources to support its development agenda.
In her closing remarks, Suminwa summarized the DR Congo's position around three key axes: respect for international law, restoration of trust in the multilateral system, and equitable distribution of benefits. The Prime Minister emphasized that restoring trust requires applying the law, even when it is costly, and not just when it is convenient. She also highlighted the need for the international community to work together to address global challenges.
Suminwa reaffirmed the DR Congo's commitment to participating actively in the transformation of the UN system. She assured that the country will take its full part in this process, while continuing its efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen institutions, and valorize its natural and human resources. The DR Congo government is seeking to promote a more global vision of its place in multilateralism, going beyond the issue of conflict in the East.
The DR Congo's priorities were presented in the context of a broader international agenda that includes security, global governance, climate change, health, and development. By highlighting these issues, the DR Congo government is seeking to promote a more comprehensive approach to addressing global challenges. The country's participation in the UN General Assembly reflects its commitment to playing a more active role in international affairs.
Key points
- The DR Congo needs over $70 billion to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
- The country's priorities include the fight against Ebola, protection of the Congo Basin, and promotion of equitable distribution of benefits.
- The DR Congo government is seeking to promote a more global vision of its place in multilateralism.
