Support from the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in Congo (MONUSCO), especially in terms of protecting civilians and strengthening State institutions, remains extremely crucial amid persisting violence in the eastern regions.

Overview of the online meeting. Photo: baoquocte.vn

Vietnam’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy made the statement in an online meeting held by the UN Security Council on March 30 discussing the current situation in Congo.

Quy underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict in order to end the people’s prolonged suffering, adding greater focus is needed on promoting dialogue between communities, addressing economic difficulties and illegal exploitation of and trade in natural resources.

The Vietnam’s Ambassador also expressed his condolences to the Italian government, the World Food Program (WFP) and other victims of the deadly attack on the WFP convoy in North Kivu Province in February, causing the death of Italian Ambassador to Congo, his bodyguard and a WFP driver.

Meanwhile, MONUSCO’s report expressed concern about increased violence by armed groups in the east, not to mention Covid-19, the resurgence of Ebola, and food insecurity that continue to aggravate existing challenges.

The fact that a new government in Congo has not been formed since the dissolution of its predecessor last December is making the situation worse.

MONUSCO Head Bintou Keita said the agency is actively providing support for civilians and facilitating dialogues between parties for the soon formation of a new government.

Going forward, the international community must speak and act in unity, she added, emphasizing that the full support of Council members is indispensable.