SECRETARY-GENERAL WELCOMES JOINT COMMUNIQUÉ BY DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO,

RWANDA ON COMMON APPROACH TO TACKLING ARMED IRREGULAR GROUPS

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General commends the Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda on their joint communiqué, signed in Nairobi on 10 November, through the United Nations.  The agreement between them on a common approach and immediate, concrete steps to carry it out marks a significant breakthrough.  This approach offers an opportunity for the comprehensive resolution of the fundamental problems posed by irregular armed groups in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.  It is also an important step towards restoring peace and security for the populations that have suffered for so long.  The Secretary-General reiterates his calls on all irregular groups operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to lay down their arms, and seize the opportunity for a normal life.

The Secretary-General notes that the agreed steps include actions to fight impunity.  He urges both Governments to act urgently to implement all the agreed measures and calls upon their international partners to support these efforts and to increase humanitarian assistance to respond to the dire situation on the ground.  For its part, the United Nations is committed to supporting both Governments in their implementation of their common approach, and to help ensure the protection of civilians.

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For information media • not an official record