On October 29, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi addressed the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, emphasizing the need for Russia's support in achieving peace in the eastern DRC. He called on Russia, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, to fully back the implementation of UN resolutions 2773 and 2808. These resolutions aim to address the security situation in the region, including the cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of the M23 rebel group from occupied areas.
President Tshisekedi highlighted that the UN resolutions also provide for the end of support from Rwandan forces to the M23 and their withdrawal from Congolese territory. He stressed that the DRC is committed to its own obligations and expects the same level of commitment from all parties involved. The DRC president also emphasized the importance of protecting civilians, ensuring humanitarian access, and facilitating the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of displaced persons and refugees.
The DRC president reaffirmed his country's commitment to pursuing a peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels, including the Washington and Doha processes, in conjunction with African mediation. He praised the engagement of African mediators and facilitators, as well as the United States and Qatar. However, he noted that recent progress would only be considered significant if it translates into effective and verifiable implementation on the ground.
President Tshisekedi also denounced the illicit exploitation of natural resources in the eastern DRC, which he believes contributes to financing armed conflicts. He stated that the exploitation of resources fuels war, which in turn hinders development. The DRC president emphasized his country's determination to guarantee the security of its citizens and restore state authority over the entire national territory.
In addition to security issues, President Tshisekedi discussed economic priorities for the DRC in its partnership with Russia. These priorities include access to energy, infrastructure development, local mineral processing, and food security. The DRC seeks economically viable projects that promote technology transfer, training, and participation from local companies.
President Tshisekedi proposed that ministers focus on a limited number of priority projects for each country, with identified funding, realistic timelines, and regular monitoring. He suggested that a first review of progress be presented at the next ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum. The DRC president emphasized that the success of this cooperation should be evaluated based on its impact on the daily lives of the population.
Finally, President Tshisekedi advocated for a reform of the UN Security Council to address what he termed as a historical injustice to Africa. He called for better coordination between UN action and African mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution. The DRC president concluded that the DRC will continue its cooperation with Russia, based on mutual respect, reciprocity, and a demand for concrete results.
Key points
- President Tshisekedi urges Russia to support UN resolutions for peace in eastern DRC.
