The 81st session of the UN General Assembly is set to take place from September 22 to 28, with over 130 heads of state and government expected to attend. This year's session is themed "Restoring trust, managing transformation: United Nations for all." The Democratic Republic of Congo will be represented by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, who will participate in high-level discussions from September 22 to 26.
According to a communiqué from the Prime Minister's office, Judith Suminwa will speak on behalf of the DRC and address key international issues, including peace and security, sustainable development, international cooperation, and strengthening multilateralism. She was mandated by President Félix Tshisekedi to represent the country at the UN General Assembly.
The DRC's participation in the UN General Assembly aims to make the country's voice heard, defend its interests, and consolidate its partnerships, in line with its commitments to the United Nations. The Prime Minister's office stated that Judith Suminwa will also hold bilateral meetings with partners and stakeholders to strengthen cooperation in areas such as peace, security, development, investment, and economic partnerships.
The UN General Assembly takes place against a backdrop of global challenges, including conflicts, inequalities, climate emergencies, and difficulties facing the multilateral system. The DRC's representation at the Assembly comes as the country continues to face security challenges, particularly in the eastern region.
Despite recent diplomatic efforts, including the Washington process and talks in Doha, tensions persist between the DRC and Rwanda, with accusations of non-respect of commitments. The situation on the ground remains difficult, with ongoing challenges to implementing security agreements and achieving a lasting peace.
The DRC and Rwanda have agreed to hold a trilateral planning conference in October 2026 to review the existing framework and develop a new operational plan to address security concerns. Additionally, talks between the DRC and the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, are ongoing in Doha, but progress has been slow.
Key issues, including the neutralization of armed groups and the implementation of security agreements, remain to be addressed. The DRC's participation in the UN General Assembly provides an opportunity for the country to engage with the international community and advocate for its interests.
Key points
- DRC President Félix Tshisekedi has mandated Prime Minister Judith Suminwa to represent the country at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.
- The UN General Assembly takes place from September 22 to 28, with over 130 heads of state and government expected to attend.
- The DRC's participation aims to make the country's voice heard, defend its interests, and consolidate its partnerships.
