Synopsis
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for increased diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in the eastern DRC after the death of 13 peacekeepers. He emphasized the need for dialogue and respect for the DRC's territorial integrity while supporting peacekeeping initiatives.Key Takeaways
- Cyril Ramaphosa calls for diplomatic actions.
- 13 South African peacekeepers were killed.
- Support for the SADC mission in the DRC.
- Emphasis on peace talks and territorial integrity.
- UN Security Council advocates for cessation of hostilities.
Cape Town, Jan 29 (NationPress) South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday urged for escalated diplomatic initiatives to address the ongoing turmoil in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) following the tragic deaths of 13 South African peacekeepers.
The South African soldiers, who are part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), lost their lives amid intensifying clashes involving the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group and the Armed Forces of the DRC since the previous week.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ramaphosa expressed his condolences to the bereaved families, urging the nation to unite in support of its soldiers who have devoted their lives to fostering peace on the continent.
The President reiterated South Africa's commitment to peace, calling on all factions to respect the DRC's territorial integrity and to engage in diplomatic dialogues to resolve the conflict.
"We urge all involved parties to fully engage in the ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution," he stated. "It is imperative that we silence the guns across our continent to facilitate inclusive growth and prosperity."
Ramaphosa welcomed the recent stance of the United Nations Security Council regarding the DRC, which advocates for an immediate halt to hostilities, the reversal of territorial advances by the M23, the withdrawal of foreign forces from the DRC, and the revival of peace negotiations under the Nairobi Process.
He also stressed that South Africa's military presence in the eastern DRC is not a declaration of war against any nation or state, as reported by Xinhua.
"The members of the South African National Defense Force currently in the DRC are contributing to both SADC and United Nations efforts to ensure peace and protect countless lives endangered by the conflict in the DRC," remarked Ramaphosa.
"The presence of SAMIDRC forces is a testament to the commitment of SADC member nations to assist the DRC in its pursuit of enduring peace, stability, and ultimately, to foster an environment conducive to sustainable development and prosperity," he added.
