The Democratic Republic of the Congo has reaffirmed its call for dialogue in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. During the 10267th meeting of the UN Security Council, DR Congo's Ambassador to the UN, Zénon Mukongo Ngay, outlined three key priorities: protecting civilians and delivering humanitarian aid, preventing risks related to nuclear installations and securing navigation in the Black Sea, and promoting diplomatic initiatives for a lasting peace.
Ambassador Ngay expressed concern over the persistence of fighting and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. He noted that the prolonged war exacerbates the suffering of civilians, making a peaceful resolution increasingly difficult to achieve. The DR Congo's diplomatic efforts emphasize the importance of adhering to the principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The DR Congo's Ambassador highlighted the need to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, citing his country's experience with war over the decades. He condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, stressing that these actions are prohibited under international humanitarian law. Ambassador Ngay also emphasized the importance of ensuring rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need.
The DR Congo is also concerned about the risks associated with nuclear installations and the security of navigation in the Black Sea. Ambassador Ngay supported the efforts of the International Atomic Energy Agency and encouraged full cooperation with the agency to prevent incidents with severe and lasting consequences. He also noted that the disruptions to commercial navigation and trade in the Black Sea have significant repercussions for supplies, energy markets, and food security.
According to the International Maritime Organization, over 570 commercial vessels have been affected in the Black Sea and Azov Sea since the beginning of the year, resulting in at least 40 deaths among sailors. Ambassador Ngay encouraged measures to preserve the safety of civilian navigation and the continuity of commercial exchanges, in accordance with international law.
The DR Congo's Ambassador emphasized that the path of dialogue and diplomacy must be prioritized to achieve a lasting ceasefire and peaceful resolution to the conflict. He stressed that a military solution cannot guarantee a durable peace and that the prolongation of the conflict only increases human suffering and undermines conditions for restoring trust between parties.
The DR Congo renewed its call for an immediate, effective, and verifiable ceasefire, as well as the resumption of constructive dialogue between parties in a spirit of good faith and responsibility. Ambassador Ngay encouraged initiatives that can help reduce human suffering and preserve spaces for trust, which are essential for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution.
Key points
- DR Congo's Ambassador to the UN, Zénon Mukongo Ngay, emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict.
- The DR Congo highlighted three key priorities: protecting civilians, preventing risks related to nuclear installations, and promoting diplomatic initiatives.
- The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian consequences, including over 570 affected commercial vessels and at least 40 deaths among sailors.
